Wilde Dagga (Leonotus leonurus), potted plant in a 9-inch deep pot, organic

Family:  Mint (Lamiaceae)

Hardy to Zones 9 to 12 (Wild dagga, Lion’s Tail, Lion’s Ears, Umunyane) Herbaceous or woody perennial. When growing in colder zones, these can be very late to re-emerge from the woody stumps of the previous year’s growth.  Flowers in the late season on multiple upright stalks, occuring as long-tubed, hairy appendages emerging from the globose, whorled orbs.  Hummingbirds become frenzied around this plant, and I’ve had them fly in through the door of the greenhouse (and risk hitting their little heads) in order to repeatedly visit a single flower that was making an out-of-season display.  Easily one of the showiest medicinals of all time. Native to South Africa and planted in discriminating botanical gardens worldwide. When encountered on garden path, it is a breathtaker.  Traditional usage (African tribal): The orange flowers are a smokable euphoric, source of phytocannabinoids.  The leaf material was traditionally used as a poultice or decoction for treating insect stings and bites of venomous snakes, wounds, boils, eczema and other skin diseases.  Taken internally for the treatment of malaria, diabetes, also demonstrating a cardiotonic and hypotensive effect.  Coughs, colds, influenza, bronchitis, asthma and viral hepatitis.  Source of diterpenoic marrubiin. Plant prefers full sun to part shade and regular garden or wayside conditions.  Since the stems can become quite woody, it holds up well to traffic and random abuse.  Well-drained, slightly alkaline soils seem to be the best choice, although almost any soil will work as long as the summer is hot and long.  The plant is quite drought tolerant. Space plants 3 feet apart.  In cold weather areas, you may wish to keep this plant in potted culture.

Potted plant in a 9 inch deep pot, Certified Organically Grown