Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
60 inches
Width
30 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
8, 9
Water
Low to moderate
Humidity
Normal
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
South Africa
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Leonotis leonurus, commonly known as lion's tail, is a perennial shrub known for its striking, tubular flowers and aromatic foliage. It is a drought-tolerant plant, ideal for attracting pollinators. This species is appreciated for its unique inflorescences arranged in whorls, resembling the tail of a lion, and its long blooming period which attracts a variety of birds and insects.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and encourage root growth.
- Water deeply but infrequently once established, about once a week.
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer during the growing season.
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape and promote bushiness.
- Transplant seedlings or young plants after the last frost for optimal growth.
Pro Tip
Use well-draining soil and full sun for vigorous growth and abundant flowering.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
- Prune to shape and remove dead stems ✂️
- Feed with a balanced fertilizer monthly
- Mulch to retain soil moisture
- Provide full sun for best flowering
Don't
- Overwater to prevent root rot ❌
- Ignore pruning after flowering
- Plant in shady areas
- Use heavy clay soil without amendments
- Neglect pest monitoring
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Propagate | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Lion's Tail questions
What zones can Lion's Tail grow in?
Lion's Tail is hardy in USDA Zones 8–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Lion's Tail deer resistant?
Yes — Lion's Tail is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Lion's Tail bloom?
Lion's Tail typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Lion's Tail need full sun?
Lion's Tail does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Lion's Tail drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Lion's Tail handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
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Grow Lion's Tail with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
