Lions Tail Plant Care
Leonotis leonurus (L.) R.Br.
Leonotis leonurus, also known as wild dagga and lion's ear, is a plant species in the mint family Lamiaceae. It is a broadleaf evergreen shrub, native to South Africa, where it is very common, with a wide altitudinal range from 5 m up to 1980 m.
Every 7–14 days
Full sun to partial shade
60–85°F
40–70%
What Is the Lions Tail?
Lions Tail (Leonotis leonurus) belongs to the Lamiaceae family within the Leonotis genus. Lions Tail is native to South Africa. Lions Tail is also known as Lion's Ear, Wild Dagga, Kanak.
Lions Tail displays a tall, upright shrub growth habit, reaching up to 6 inches tall with a spread of approximately 3 inches. Lions Tail produces tubular orange or red flowers in whorls around the stem.
Leaf size: approximately 4 inches.
How Often Should You Water a Lions Tail?
Leonotis leonurus requires watering every 7–14 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.
Watering Frequency
Every 7–14 days
Let soil partially dry between waterings
What Light Does the Lions Tail Need?
Lions Tail thrives in full sun to partial shade light conditions. The optimal light range is 2000–5000 lux. Avoid placing Lions Tail in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.
Light Requirement
Full sun to partial shade
2000–5000 lux
What Temperature and Humidity Does the Lions Tail Prefer?
Leonotis leonurus grows best at temperatures between 60°F and 85°F. Lions Tail prefers humidity levels of 40–70%.
Temperature
60–85°F
Humidity
40–70%
What Soil Mix Works Best for a Lions Tail?
Well-draining sandy loam with added compost for nutrients. Good drainage is essential for Lions Tail to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.
How Do You Repot a Lions Tail?
Repot every 2-3 years in early spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
How Do You Propagate a Lions Tail?
Lions Tail can be propagated through seeds, stem cuttings.
Fertilizing
Every 6 months
During the growing season
Is the Lions Tail Toxic to Pets and Children?
Non-Toxic
Non-toxic to humans and pets
What Pests and Diseases Affect the Lions Tail?
Lions Tail is susceptible to aphids, spider mites. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.
What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Lions Tail Need?
Lions Tail grows outdoors in USDA Zone 13a. Native to South Africa, Lions Tail is adapted to warm climates. In cooler regions, grow Lions Tail as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 13a
Keep exploring plants
Lions Tail is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.
It belongs to the Leonotis genus — compare its care with other Leonotis species on PlantoScan.
Lions Tail tolerates low-light rooms and shaded spots — browse the full list of low-light plants.
Identify Plants Like the
Lions Tail Instantly
Scan any plant with your iPhone camera and get instant ID, care tips, watering reminders, and disease checks — all in one app.
Free
to download
89%
accuracy
5.0
App Store
200K+
species