Big Lion's Ear, Wild Dagga (Leonotis leonurus) - Seed

Sowing instructions

1. Choose the right location: Leonotis prefers a sunny location with well-drained soil. Choose an area in your garden that receives plenty of sunlight and is protected from strong winds.
2. Soil preparation: Loosen the soil thoroughly and remove weeds and large stones. Leonotis thrives best in well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH value. If necessary, amend the soil with compost or rotted manure to increase the nutrient supply.
3. Seed procurement: Obtain high-quality Leonotis seeds from a trustworthy source (e.g. HERE). Make sure to choose fresh seeds to ensure good germination.
4. Sowing time: The best times for sowing Leonotis seeds are in spring or early summer when the soil temperatures are warm enough. Sow the seeds about 0.5 to 1 centimeter deep in the prepared soil and keep it evenly moist.
5. Germination and care: Leonotis seeds can take several weeks to germinate. Keep the seedlings moist and thin them out if necessary to prevent overcrowding. As soon as the seedlings become stronger, you can carefully transplant them to provide enough space for them to grow.

Tips and tricks

• Regular watering: Leonotis plants need regular watering, especially during dry periods. Make sure to keep the soil evenly moist, but avoid overwatering to prevent waterlogging.
• Mulching: Mulching around the Leonotis plants can help retain moisture in the soil, reduce weed growth and protect the roots from extreme temperatures.
• Special care during the flowering period: Leonotis produces showy inflorescences that attract butterflies and other pollinating insects. During the flowering period, make sure to water the plants regularly and remove wilted inflorescences to prolong the flowering period.
• Harvest time: The leaves and flowers of Leonotis can be harvested as soon as they are fully grown. Cut them off carefully and dry them thoroughly before storing them for later use.

Worth knowing

• Leonotis is a genus of plants in the Lamiaceae family, native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa and South America. It is known for its showy inflorescences and medicinal properties and is often grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks.
• The flowers of Leonotis have a long history of use in traditional medicine, especially in Africa, where they are used to treat coughs, colds and other respiratory ailments. The leaves can also be used to make tea, which has a calming and anti-inflammatory effect.
• It is important to note that Leonotis plants can be considered invasive species in some regions and can spread rapidly. Be sure to check and prune the plants regularly to control their spread and avoid crowding out other plants.