Leonitus leonurus
Notify MeLeonotis leonurus, commonly known as Lion’s Tail, is a striking, evergreen to semi-deciduous shrub noted for its tall, upright stems crowned with whorls of vivid orange tubular flowers from late spring through autumn. The dramatic, tiered flower spikes and aromatic green foliage create strong vertical structure and attract bees, butterflies, and birds to the garden.
Ideal for Mediterranean, cottage, and wildlife-friendly gardens, Leonotis leonurus is perfect for borders, feature planting, or mixed perennial beds. It thrives in full sun with free-draining soil and is tolerant of wind, heat, and dry conditions once established. Space approximately 80 cm to 1 metre apart for group plantings.
Forms an upright, bushy shrub reaching around 1.5 to 2 metres high and 1 to 1.5 metres wide.
Trimming: Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a tidy shape and encourage a compact, bushy habit. In late winter or early spring, cut back harder to just above ground level to stimulate vigorous new growth.
Deadheading: Recommended. Remove spent flower spikes to tidy the plant and encourage repeat flowering throughout the season.
Fertilising: Apply a general-purpose slow-release fertiliser in early spring. In poorer soils, feed with a balanced liquid fertiliser every 4 to 6 weeks during active growth to support flowering and healthy foliage.
Watering: Water regularly during the establishment phase. Once established, it is drought-tolerant but benefits from occasional deep watering during prolonged dry spells. Avoid waterlogged soil.
Pest Control: Generally pest-free. Occasionally monitor for aphids or whitefly on new growth. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil if needed.
Disease Management: Minimal disease issues. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot and provide adequate airflow to avoid fungal problems. Prune out any damaged or diseased growth and dispose of it promptly.
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