LION'S EAR
 
Botanical Name: Leonotis nepetifolia
 
Origin: South Africa
 
Leonotis nepetifolia is a member of the mint family, is a perennial shrub native to southern Africa. The flowers are a red-orange color, grow in spikes, and are a favorite of many gardeners because of their beauty. 
 
Lion's Ear favors warm, dry climates and is drought tolerant, though it may be grown in almost any temperate environment including shrub lands, grasslands, and swamp lands. The plant grows in California, Mexico, and the Caribbean, and has become naturalised in Western Australia and New South Wales in Australia. While it can grow in the spring and summer months in temperate climes if well protected and in full sun, it does not endure frost well and may not survive winter unless brought indoors. 
 
Lion’s Ear is a favorite of butterflies, bees, and birds. It is purported to have mild effects when either its buds or leaves are dried, cured and smoked.
 
For research purposes only.