Lion&
Mint Seeds, Lion&
Mint Seeds, Lion&
Lion&
Mint Seeds, Lion&
Mint Seeds, Lion&

Mint Seeds,
Lion's Ear or Klip Dagga

4.357 ReviewsSKU: #HB167Min. seed count: 50
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Description

(Leonotis nepetifolia) A member of the mint family, it is native to southern Africa and is used there as a folk medicine for treating numerous ailments, and has shown some promise in studies. Tall, evergreen tropical plant produces loads of stunning peachy-orange flowers. It is also known as Christmas Candlestick. Caution: this plant is a mild narcotic.

Growing Tips: Lion's Ear thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it a great addition to borders, containers, or wildlife gardens where it can attract pollinators like hummingbirds and bees. Ensure 6-12 hours of sun daily, and ideally a temperature around 65-70 F.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Leonotis nepetifolia
Life Cycle
Annual
Sun Requirement
6–12 hr.
Days to Germinate
7–21
Days to Maturity
110–130
Planting Depth
⅛ in.
Plant Spacing
24 in.
Ideal Temperature
65–70°F
Frost Hardy
No

When to Grow

Lion's Ear should be started indoors in early spring, lightly covering and keeping very warm. Set out plants after all danger of frost is past. May be direct sown outdoors in long-summer climates. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

How to Sow and Plant

Surface sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mix and press them lightly into the soil. The seeds require light to germinate, so cover them very lightly with soil or vermiculite. Keep the soil moist until germination. Space the plants about 2 feet (24 inches) apart. In colder zones, consider growing Lion's Ear in containers so they can be moved indoors during winter​.

How to Grow

Lion's Ear thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, although it can tolerate light shade and a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and even slightly alkaline soils. Water the plant regularly during its first growing season to establish a strong root system. Once established, Lion's Ear is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering. Prune the plant after flowering to maintain its shape and encourage a second bloom.

How to Save Seeds

  • Seeds are mature once the flower heads have fully dried and turned brown. To harvest them, cut the flower spikes and place them inside a paper bag. This allows the seeds to completely dry and drop; you may need to shake the bag gently to help loosen the seeds. Afterward, separate any chaff from the seeds and store them in a cool, dry place.
  • Many people prefer propagating mint plants through cuttings as it is generally easier than growing from seeds. Simply take a cutting from a healthy plant, remove the lower leaves, and place it in water until roots develop. Then, plant it in the soil.

FAQ

Is Lion's Ear drought-tolerant?

Yes, once established, Lion's Ear is quite drought-tolerant and only requires occasional watering during prolonged dry periods.

Can Lion's Ear be grown in containers?

Yes, Lion's Ear can be successfully grown in containers, making it easier to manage in colder climates. Use a well-draining soil mix and ensure the container has good drainage.

How should Lion's Ear be pruned?

Prune the plant after flowering to maintain a bushy, compact shape. This tropical plant is killed by frost, so in frost-prone areas grow it in a container and move it indoors before the first frost, or simply treat it as an annual and resow each spring.

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