Lion's ear (Leonotis leonurus)
Care, watering, light and tips for Lion's ear on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Lamiaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 5–35 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Lion's ear
Leonotis leonurus, also known as 'Lion's Ear', is a striking perennial shrub from the Lamiaceae family, native to South Africa. It is characterized by its vibrant orange, tubular flower spikes resembling a lion's mane, arranged in whorls along the stems. This plant is an excellent choice for low-maintenance gardens, sunny borders, and as a focal point due to its spectacular and prolonged blooming.
Native range
South Africa
Care tips
Lion's Ear thrives in full sun and well-drained, even poor, soils, tolerating drought once established. Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent waterlogging. Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new blooms. A common mistake is overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
How to save a dying Lion's ear
- Warning signs
- Yellowing or browning leaves dropping, soft stems, lack of blooms or wilting flowers.
- First aid
- Check watering (drier soil is best), prune affected parts, move to a sunnier spot.
- What kills it
- Overwatering is its worst enemy, along with lack of direct sunlight and poor drainage.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, it often recovers well if watering and sun exposure are corrected quickly.