Leonotis leonurus Orange

Common Name:
Lion’s Tail (Orange)

Description:
Leonotis leonurus ‘Orange’, commonly known as Lion’s Tail, is a striking, fast-growing shrub prized for its vivid whorls of bright orange tubular flowers that encircle tall upright stems. These distinctive blooms appear in tiered clusters, creating a bold architectural display from autumn through winter, bringing colour to the garden when many other plants are dormant. The foliage is a soft green, slightly aromatic, and provides an attractive backdrop to the vibrant flowers. Exceptionally well-suited to Melbourne conditions, this hardy plant thrives in full sun and well-drained soils, demonstrating excellent drought tolerance once established. Ideal for informal hedging, mixed borders, or as a feature plant, it also performs well in coastal gardens. Regular pruning after flowering encourages a denser habit and prolonged flowering. Highly attractive to birds and pollinators, Leonotis leonurus ‘Orange’ is both ornamental and ecologically beneficial.

Form:
Shrub - Medium

Mature Size:
Height: 1.5–2.5 m
Width: 1.5–2 m

Aspect:
Full Sun

Flowering:
Flowers in Autumn
Flowers in Winter

Flower Colour:
Bright orange

Key Attributes:
Bee Attracting
Bird Attracting
Drought Tolerant
Fast Growing
Perennial
Suitable for Hedging

Toxicity:
Generally considered non-toxic to humans and pets, though ingestion may cause mild discomfort in some cases.

Companion Plants:
Lavender
Salvia
Westringia
Grevillea
Kangaroo Paw (Anigozanthos)