Lion's Tail
Leonotis leonurus
Also listed as Phlomis leonurus, Hemisodon leonurus
Also known as Lion's Ear, Common Lion's Ear, Wild Dagga
Climate Match for your location
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Lion's Tail is a vibrant South African shrub with distinctive orange tubular flowers arranged in whorled spikes that bloom mid- to late summer. It thrives in full sun and dry conditions, making it excellent for water-wise gardens and coastal landscapes.
Why grow it
Lion's Tail offers reliable mid- to late-summer color in water-limited settings where many ornamental shrubs struggle, filling a genuine niche in dry-garden design. Its tubular flowers attract pollinators effectively, and the plant requires minimal inputs once established in appropriate conditions (full sun, well-drained soil). Compared to other drought-tolerant ornamentals, it provides distinct vertical interest through its whorled spike structure rather than the mounding or spreading forms common to sedums or lavenders.
Watch out for
In regions with humid summers or poorly drained soils, Lion's Tail may develop fungal issues or root rot, requiring careful siting and soil amendment. The plant can take 2-3 seasons to reach mature size and flowering density, so patience is needed during establishment. In mild climates where it doesn't die back seasonally, pruning in early spring helps maintain a compact, floriferous form rather than a leggy plant.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Lamiaceae
Native Range
South Africa
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Shrub
Woody multi-stem plants at eye level.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
pH Range
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
Lion's Tail is a vibrant South African shrub with distinctive orange tubular flowers arranged in whorled spikes that bloom mid- to late summer. It thrives in full sun and dry conditions, making it excellent for water-wise gardens and coastal landscapes.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Lion's Tail grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Lion's Tail offers reliable mid- to late-summer color in water-limited settings where many ornamental shrubs struggle, filling a genuine niche in dry-garden design. Its tubular flowers attract pollinators effectively, and the plant requires minimal inputs once established in appropriate conditions (full sun, well-drained soil). Compared to other drought-tolerant ornamentals, it provides distinct vertical interest through its whorled spike structure rather than the mounding or spreading forms common to sedums or lavenders.
Watch out for
In regions with humid summers or poorly drained soils, Lion's Tail may develop fungal issues or root rot, requiring careful siting and soil amendment. The plant can take 2-3 seasons to reach mature size and flowering density, so patience is needed during establishment. In mild climates where it doesn't die back seasonally, pruning in early spring helps maintain a compact, floriferous form rather than a leggy plant.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Lamiaceae
Native Range
South Africa
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Shrub
Woody multi-stem plants at eye level.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
pH Range
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
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