Lion’s Tail

It's been over 15 years since I've had this beauty, Lion's Tail Leonotis leonurus, in my garden. I love the bright colour in late summer/autumn and how unfussy it is. It is native to South Africa and is a member of the mint family. I have always grown it in a sheltered position and it comes away again in spring after being knocked back by frosts. It is ok in drier Mediterranean-style gardens. In warmer areas it is evergreen. I grow it because I love it. The pollinators love it too.

Lion's tail is also known as Wild Dagga and Lion's Ear. Herbally, this is not something I use personally or in clinic but it has been noted in traditional South African tribesmen to be used internally for infections (viral), parasites, insect bites, arthritis and high blood pressure. Topically it is known for rashes, wounds and haemorrhoids. It is a close relative of Motherwort so is also associated with menstrual issues.