Leonotis leonurus, commonly known as Lion's Ear, Lion's Tail, or Wild Dagga, is a broadleaf evergreen shrub native to South Africa. It belongs to the mint family (Lamiaceae) and is prized for its vibrant orange tubular flowers arranged in distinctive tiered whorls. The plant grows rapidly from seed and is generally easy to propagate.
Before sowing
No pre-treatment needed — sow directly.
Sowing
What to expect
Tips
Sealing seeds in a polythene bag after sowing helps maintain consistent moisture and warmth. Remove plastic covering once seedlings emerge for air circulation and temperature reduction. Lower temperature after germination. Sow indoors in late winter or early spring (February-March) for best results. Germination can be erratic in some cases.
Sources: CSBE.org, Biology Insights, Chiltern Seeds, PlantZAfrica, Fine Naturalist Blog
