Lion's Tail
Leonotis leonurus
Varieties We Bring In
Last received Mar 4, 2026.
We bring this in seasonally, so what is on the lot changes week to week. A received date shows when it last came in, not that it is here today.
Call (904) 471-0440 to confirm this plant and size before you make the trip.
About Lion's Tail
Lion's Tail (Leonotis leonurus) is a tall, shrubby perennial native to South Africa, producing whorls of velvety tubular orange flowers stacked along square stems from late summer through winter. The vivid blooms attract hummingbirds and butterflies, adding dramatic vertical interest. Hardy in NE Florida zone 9b — may die back after a hard freeze but regrows vigorously from the roots in spring. Starting at $14.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Fall, Winter
- Flower Color
- Orange
- Growth Rate
- Fast
- Foliage
- Semi-evergreen
- Soil
- Sandy, Well-drained
Best planting months
Seasonal care
Good planting window.
Handles summer heat well once established.
Bloom season. Ideal planting window.
Bloom season. May lose some foliage in cold snaps.
Care essentials
Plant in full sun for best bloom production; Lion's Tail thrives in NE Florida's intense sun and heat, making it ideal for hot, exposed spots in the landscape.
Extremely drought-tolerant once established; water regularly during the first growing season, then reduce to occasional deep watering. Avoid overwatering or poorly drained sites, which can be fatal.
Requires well-drained, sandy or lean soil; NE Florida's sandy soils are ideal. Rich or constantly moist soils promote rank growth and rot. A light application of balanced fertilizer in spring is sufficient; avoid heavy feeding.
Similar needs
Baby's Breath
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, low water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Beardtongue
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, low water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Black Eyed Susan
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, low water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Blanket Flower
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, low water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Butterfly Weed
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, low water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Calamint
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, low water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
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Common questions
Is Lion's Tail a good plant for St. Augustine?
Lion's Tail is a perennial for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 4-6 feet × 3-4 feet.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed February 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.