Lion's Tail Leonotis leonurus
ABOUT
Known commonly as lion's tail, this striking plant features a unique and eye-catching arrangement of blooms. Resembling the shape of a lion's tail, the flowers are fiery orange to red in color and are densely packed in spherical clusters which encircle the square-shaped stems at intervals. These vibrant blooms are comprised of tubular structures that protrude from the spheres in a whorled fashion, looking like the tufts of a lion's tail. The foliage of lion's tail contrasts with its bold flowers, presenting narrow leaves that are slightly serrated along their edges and exhibit a rough texture. The leaves are usually a green to gray-green hue and may have fine hairs giving them a soft, velvety feel. The plant's overall growth form is shrubby, with a branching habit that allows the spherical flower clusters to be displayed prominently, creating an ornamental feature that attracts both human admirers and various pollinators such as birds and bees.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae
Synonyms
Lion's Tail, Wild Dagga, Lion's Ear, Minaret Flower
Common names
Phlomis leonurus, Leonotis ovata, Leonotis leonurus var. albiflora.
ToxicityTo humans
Lion's tail, commonly known as Leonotis leonurus, is not widely recognized as a highly toxic plant to humans. However, it contains certain compounds that can affect the body if ingested in large quantities. While there is limited information on its toxicity, any plant material ingested in excess could potentially cause gastrointestinal upset, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain. It is advised to exercise caution and not consume this plant, particularly for medicinal purposes, without proper guidance from a healthcare professional.
To pets
Lion's tail may not be widely cited as a toxic plant to pets, but as with many plants, it has the potential to cause mild to moderate gastrointestinal upset if ingested. Symptoms for pets could include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or changes in appetite. As pet reactions can be unpredictable and some animals may be more sensitive, it's recommended to keep Leonotis leonurus out of reach of pets and to consult a veterinarian if any part of the plant is consumed by an animal.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Orange
Height
3-6 feet (0.9-1.8 meters)
Spread
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
8-11
Native area
South Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Leonotis leonurus, commonly known as Lion's Tail, is renowned for its tubular orange flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, aiding pollination.
- Drought Tolerance: Lion's Tail is highly drought-resistant, making it suitable for xeriscaping and reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Ease of Care: It is a low maintenance plant that requires minimal attention once established, making it ideal for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Aesthetic Appeal: With its unique and striking flowers and foliage, Lion's Tail adds visual interest and exotic flair to gardens and landscapes.
- Fast Growth: Lion's Tail is known for its rapid growth under the right conditions, offering quick coverage or filling in garden spaces efficiently.
- Deer Resistance: The plant is typically not favored by deer, which can help prevent damage to gardens and landscapes in deer-populated areas.
- Soil Adaptability: Lion's Tail can adapt to a variety of soil conditions, although it prefers well-drained soil, which allows for flexible gardening uses.
- Seasonal Interest: The vibrant blooms of Lion's Tail typically appear from late spring to fall, providing several seasons of interest in the garden.
Medical Properties- Traditionally used for treating colds and flu: widely claimed to help alleviate symptoms like fever and congestion.
- Reported to have anti-inflammatory properties: may be used to help reduce inflammation and associated pain.
- Evidence suggests it may have antioxidant effects: could potentially protect cells from oxidative stress and damage.
- Used in traditional medicine as a treatment for headaches and muscle cramps.
- Sometimes used as a remedy for skin conditions: applied topically in some cultures to treat issues like eczema and skin irritations.
- Reportedly has antispasmodic properties: may be used to alleviate symptoms of stomach cramps and indigestion.
- Has been used as a treatment for high blood pressure: traditional use suggests it may help in managing hypertension.
- Used in some cultures as a treatment for epilepsy and other seizure disorders.
- May have diuretic effects: traditionally used to promote urination and alleviate water retention.
- Reported in traditional medicine to have mild mood-enhancing and sedative properties: used to alleviate symptoms of stress and anxiety.
- Has been used as a vermifuge: to expel parasitic worms and other intestinal parasites.
- Traditional use for tuberculosis and jaundice, though lacking substantial scientific evidence.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Leonotis leonurus, also known as Wild Dagga, can be used as a natural dye, providing a range of colors from yellow to a deep orange depending on the mordant used.
- The leaves and flowers of Wild Dagga can be added to potpourri mixes for their aromatic properties, enhancing the scent of the mixture.
- Wild Dagga can be used in landscaping as an ornamental plant due to its bright orange flowers, which add aesthetic value to gardens and attract pollinators like bees and hummingbirds.
- The plant has been used in traditional ceremonies by indigenous tribes in South Africa, often associated with spiritual practices and rituals.
- The dried flowers of Wild Dagga can be incorporated into decorative arrangements and crafts, such as wreaths or floral artistry, adding unique textures and colors.
- Some gardeners use Leonotis leonurus as a companion plant in vegetable gardens to attract beneficial insects that prey on pests, aiding in natural pest control.
- The fluffy texture of the seed heads of Wild Dagga may be used in the creation of natural jewelry or as an embellishment in textile arts.
- Wild Dagga can be composted into a nutrient-rich mulch that can be used to improve soil health and promote the growth of other plants.
- The plant's strong stems can be utilized as natural, biodegradable stakes to support other plants in the garden or as material for rustic crafts.
- Wild Dagga's nectar-rich flowers make it an ideal candidate for inclusion in butterfly gardens, providing a valuable food source for various butterfly species.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Lion's Tail is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Lion's Tail is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Protection: Known commonly as "Lion's Tail," Leonotis leonurus is associated with strength and courage, similar to the animal it's named after, offering symbolic protection against harm.
- Healing: The plant has been used in traditional medicine, and as such, it symbolizes healing and the relief of ailments.
- Cleansing: Its use in traditional rituals for warding off evil spirits grants it the symbolism of purification and spiritual cleansing.
- Legal Issues: Due to its legal ambiguity in some regions and its association with mild psychoactive effects, it symbolically represents the thin line between legal and illegal substances.
WaterLion's Tail requires moderate watering, generally an inch of water per week depending on the climate and soil moisture. During the growing season, typically from spring to early fall, Lion's Tail should be watered thoroughly once the top inch of soil feels dry. In hotter, drier climates, this may mean watering a few times a week. During the winter, reduce the watering to every few weeks, enough to prevent the soil from drying out completely. The aim is to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, which can lead to root rot. If you're using a container for your Lion's Tail, ensure it has adequate drainage holes.
LightLion's Tail thrives in full sun, so it's best to place it in a location where it can receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. This plant will perform well in spots that are exposed to the sun for the majority of the day, with some tolerance for partial shade. However, less light may result in fewer blooms and a leggier plant. The ideal spot for Lion's Tail would be in a sunny border or as a standalone specimen in a bright garden area.
TemperatureThe Lion's Tail plant prefers warm conditions and is hardy in USDA zones 8-11. It can survive in temperatures as low as 20 to 25 degrees Fahrenheit but thrives in temperatures between 60 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. If grown in areas with harsh winters, it is best to overwinter the plant indoors or provide protection from frost, as it is not tolerant of prolonged freezing temperatures.
PruningPruning Lion's Tail can encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Pruning should be done in the late winter or early spring, just before the new growth begins. It involves cutting back the previous year's growth by one-third to one-half, to promote a more compact shape and vigorous flowering. Regular deadheading during the blooming season can also promote longer bloom times and maintain plant appearance.
CleaningAs needed
SoilLion's tail thrives in well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. A mix of two parts loam, one part sand, and one part compost or peat moss creates an ideal environment for the roots, ensuring good aeration and nutrient retention.
RepottingLion's tail should be repotted every 2 to 3 years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth. Young plants may need repotting more frequently, whereas mature plants can be rejuvenated by replacing the top layer of soil annually.
Humidity & MistingLion's tail prefers low to moderate humidity levels and can tolerate drier conditions. It is well-suited to the humidity levels typically found in most homes without the need for additional humidity adjustments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure full sun, dry soil, and room for growth.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, well-drained soil, and protect from frost.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cycleLion's tail, or Leonotis leonurus, begins its life cycle as a seed which, when sown in well-drained soil and exposed to sunlight and warmth, germinates. The seedling emerges with its first set of true leaves, and as it grows, it develops into a vegetative state, forming a bushy structure with lance-shaped leaves. As the plant matures, it enters the flowering stage, typically in late summer to fall, producing whorls of bright orange or red flowers that are tube-shaped and known to attract hummingbirds and bees. After pollination, these flowers produce fruits containing seeds, which, when mature, are dispersed by wind or wildlife, completing the reproductive cycle. In temperate climates, lion's tail may die back to the ground during winter, entering a period of dormancy. With the return of warmer weather, the plant can regrow from the rootstock if the frost has not been too severe, or otherwise, new plants can grow from the dispersed seeds, continuing the life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
For the Lion's Tail (Leonotis leonurus), the most popular method of propagation is through seeds. The best time to sow Lion's Tail seeds is in the spring after the last frost when the soil has warmed up. Seeds should be scattered on the surface of well-draining soil and lightly covered with a thin layer of soil or simply pressed into the ground, as they require light to germinate. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Germination usually occurs within 2 to 4 weeks. Once seedlings are large enough to handle and have a few sets of true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the garden, ideally spaced about 18 inches (approximately 45 centimeters) apart to allow for mature growth.
