Herbs in Our Garden

Lion’s Tail (Leonotis leonurus)

Lion’s tail is a striking flowering herb in the mint family (Lamiaceae). Native to southern Africa, it has been used for centuries by indigenous communities for respiratory complaints, fevers, and mild relaxation, and was sometimes smoked or brewed as a tea. This herb grows best in full sun, well-drained soil, and warm climates. It is drought-tolerant once established and thrives in USDA zones 8–11, though it can be grown as an annual or protected perennial in colder regions.

Lion’s tail is easily recognized by its tall upright stems (3–6 feet) and distinctive whorls of fuzzy, tubular bright orange flowers that attract pollinators. In Missouri, it can grow well during the warm season but usually needs winter protection or replanting each year because of frost sensitivity.

Culinarily, leaves are occasionally used as a mild herbal tea. Medicinally, traditional uses include soothing coughs and mild anxiety, though modern clinical evidence is limited. Utilitarian uses include ornamental landscaping for wildlife gardens. Interesting fact: the plant’s common name comes from the flower clusters, which resemble the tufted tip of a lion’s tail swaying in the wind.