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Conservatory GreenhouseShrubs

Leonotis leonurus

lion's tail

A semi-evergreen shrub to 2m, with lance-shaped leaves to 12cm long, and whorls of reddish orange to red flowers 6cm long in autumn and early winter

Other common names
lion's tooth
lion's ear

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Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
1–1.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Green
Autumn Orange Red Green
Winter Orange Red Green
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H2
Botanical details
Family
Lamiaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Semi evergreen
Habit
Bushy
Genus

Leonotis can be annuals, perennials, deciduous or evergreen shrubs, with aromatic leaves and 2-lipped, tubular flowers borne in whorls towards the ends of the branches

Name status

Correct

Plant range
South Africa

How to grow

Cultivation

Treat as a tender perennial and grow in a cool greenhouse, or plant outdoors after frosts in a sunny border or against a warm wall

Propagation

Propagate by seed or greenwood cuttings in late spring or summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Coastal
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • Wall side borders
Pruning

Pruning group 10, in spring, if grown perennially outdoors. If grown under glass, or as a tender perennial, cut to ground level in early spring

Pests

Under glass glasshouse red spider mite and glasshouse whitefly may be a problem

Diseases

Susceptible to grey moulds under glass

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