Lion's tail (Leonotis leonurus)

Lion's tail

Also known as: Lion's ear, Minaret Flower

Lion's tail (Leonotis leonurus) is an evergreen shrub native to the southern regions of Africa. It is cultivated around the world for its distinctive orange flowers and its tolerance for hot, dry weather. Its nectar attracts hummingbirds and butterflies. Lion's tail flowers curve at an angle matched by the beaks of African sunbirds who also feast on the plant's nectar.

Scientific classification

Species

Lion's tail (Leonotis leonurus)

Mints plantains olives and allies

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Mid spring, Late spring, Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

All year round

Harvest Time

1.2 m to 2.5 m

Plant Height

1.2 m to 1.8 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2 cm to 5 cm

Flower Size

Green

Fruit Color

Orange, White

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Non-dormant

Dormancy

Images of Lion's tail

Distribution of Lion's tail

Distribution Map

Lion's tail is indigenous to the southern parts of the African continent, thriving in its native climates. The plant has further spread and is now established in various regions of South America, Southeast Asia, and Oceania, evidencing its adaptability to diverse environments. Lion's tail is additionally cultivated in areas beyond its original and introduced range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

Discover plant distribution and habitat

Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.

Download the App for Free

Habitat

Damp grasslands

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Chosen by gardeners for its architectural foliage, the unusual beauty of its flowers, and its appeal to birds, bees, and butterflies, lion's tail is a tall ornamental that needs a fair amount of headroom and room to spread. It makes a great specimen plant, can be the centerpiece of a pollinator garden, and makes a good addition to sunny subtropical gardens.

Symbolism

Regal, creative, colorful and confident

Get quick plant knowledge with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant identification and learn about its name, symbolism, interesting facts, uses, and more.

Download the App for Free

Toxicity

Handling lion's tail causes skin irritation, and consuming lion's tail leads to visual impairment, dizziness, lightheadedness, nausea, and sweating.

Identify toxic plants in your garden

Find out what’s toxic and what’s safe for humans and pets.

Download the App for Free

Quickly Identify Lion's tail

Erect shrub, 4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters) tall with herbaceous stems

Dark green lanceolate leaves, 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) long with serrated edges

Fuzzy, curved, tubular orange flowers in tiered whorls on upper stems

Orange tubular blooms, 1.5 inches (4 cm) long, with two-lipped structure

Distinctive vein pattern on smooth, dark green leaves for easy identification

Identify plants with a snap

Instantly identify plants with AI: Snap a photo, and get accurate results within seconds.

Download the App for Free

Care Guide for Lion's tail

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from subtropical regions, lion's tail thrives in drier conditions while being drought-tolerant. Weekly watering is essential for optimal health, with adjustments needed during the growing season to counteract increased soil drying from higher temperatures.

Fertilize: Fertilizing lion's tail with high phosphorus promotes blooms and strengthens roots. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer every two months during the growing season and reduce in winter. Avoid over-fertilization, which can cause damage, and always water thoroughly post-application.

Pruning: Lion's tail features vibrant orange flowers and requires annual pruning for shape and dense foliage. Prune from early spring to late winter by cutting stems back one-third and removing dead wood. This enhances blooming duration and overall health, ensuring vivid displays during the growing season.

Propagation: Lion's tail propagates effectively via cuttings in spring and summer. It is moderately easy to propagate, indicated by new growth and root formation. Maintain moisture and provide indirect sunlight for optimal results.

Repotting: Repot lion's tail in early spring every 2-3 years in a spacious container to promote growth. Use well-draining soil and water consistently post-repotting. Lion's tail prefers full sun and has a sensitive root system, so handle with care.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free

Images of Lion's tail

Distribution of Lion's tail

Culture

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Lion's tail

Care Guide for Lion's tail

PEOPLE ALSO ASK

Common Pests & Diseases