Leonotis leonurus (Lion’s Ear)
Leonotis leonurus, commonly known as Lion’s Ear, is a bold and dramatic perennial shrub admired for its striking orange tubular flowers arranged in tiered whorls along tall stems. Tough, fast-growing, and showy, it adds height, colour, and movement to any warm-climate garden.
🌱 Why Gardeners Love Lion’s Ear
✔ Vibrant orange blooms - Unique, architectural flower whorls create a dramatic visual impact.
✔ Attracts birds & pollinators - Nectar-rich flowers draw in bees, butterflies, and honeyeaters.
✔ Heat & drought tolerant - Thrives in hot, dry conditions and poor soils.
✔ Fast-growing - Reaches maturity quickly, providing height and structure within a season.
✔ Long flowering period - Blooms from late summer through autumn, extending seasonal colour.
🏡 How to Use Lion’s Ear in Your Garden
✅ Back-of-border height - Adds vertical interest to mixed perennial beds.
✅ Wildlife and pollinator gardens - Excellent for attracting beneficial insects and birds.
✅ Drought-tolerant landscapes - Perfect for low-water, Mediterranean, and native-inspired gardens.
✅ Feature planting - Tall stems and vivid flowers make a striking focal point.
Easy Planting & Care Guide
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Spacing: Plant 70cm to 1 metre apart when using in mixed beds, or add more plants for a denser mass of colour.
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Best Planting Time: Can be planted year-round, best season is spring.
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Mulching & Fertilising: This plant thrives naturally and does not require mulching or fertiliser to stay healthy.
❔ FAQs About Lion’s Ear
How tall does Leonotis leonurus grow?
It typically reaches 1.5 to 2 metres tall, sometimes taller in ideal conditions.
When does it flower?
It blooms from late summer to autumn, adding vibrant colour when many plants are fading.
Is it suitable for coastal or dry climates?
Yes, it handles heat, wind, and low-water conditions exceptionally well.
Does it die back in winter?
In cooler climates it may partially die back, but it regrows strongly in spring.
Does it need pruning?
Light pruning after flowering keeps it tidy, and a harder trim in late winter encourages bushy new growth.
🌿 Ready to Transform Your Garden?
Limited stock available, bring striking height and colour to your garden with Lion’s Ear today!