Looking to turn your garden into a hummingbird hotspot?
The lion’s tail (Leonotis leonurus) is a stunning South African shrub that’s about to become your new secret weapon.
Meet the Lion’s Tail: A Botanical Marvel
Lion’s tail, scientifically known as Leonotis leonurus, hails from the sun-drenched grasslands of South Africa. But don’t let its exotic origins fool you – this adaptable beauty can thrive in Mediterranean and subtropical climates worldwide.
But why “lion’s tail,” you ask? Well, those tiered whorls of flowers resemble the tuft at the end of a lion’s tail, hence the name. It’s also known as “wild dagga” or “lion’s ear” in some circles.
Why Hummingbirds Can’t Resist Lion’s Tail
Now, let’s talk about why hummingbirds go gaga for this fuzzy flower. It’s like nature designed the perfect hummingbird buffet:
- The tubular shape of the flowers is tailor-made for hummingbird beaks.
- That vibrant orange color? It’s like a neon “OPEN” sign for hummingbirds.
- The tiered whorls offer multiple feeding stations, so there’s plenty to go around.
A Nectar Powerhouse with African Roots
Lion’s tail is a nectar powerhouse, producing a sweet treat that hummingbirds simply can’t resist. And the best part? It keeps blooming from late spring through fall, providing a consistent food source for these high-energy visitors.
Interestingly, lion’s tail co-evolved with sunbirds in its native habitat. These African nectivores share similar feeding habits with hummingbirds, which explains why our North American hummers find it so irresistible.
It’s like a little piece of South African paradise in your backyard!
Creating a Hummingbird Haven with Lion’s Tail
Ready to roll out the red carpet for hummingbirds? Here’s how to make lion’s tail the star of your garden:
- Find a sunny spot. Lion’s tail loves basking in full sun.
- Ensure well-drained soil. Loamy or sandy soil is ideal.
- Don’t fuss with the soil pH. Lion’s tail is happy in neutral to slightly alkaline conditions.
- Once established, it’s drought-tolerant. Perfect for water-wise gardening!
When planting, give each lion’s tail about 72 inches of space. They like to spread out and show off. Water moderately while they’re getting established, then ease off – these plants are tough cookies.
Secret to Growing Lion’s Tail
Here’s a pro tip: don’t bother with fertilizer. (ref) Lion’s tail thrives in poor soil. It’s like the scrappy underdog of the plant world – give it less, and it’ll show you more!
To keep your lion’s tail looking its best, deadhead after blooming and cut it back hard before the first frost. This will encourage bushier growth and more flowers next season.
Beyond Hummingbirds: Additional Benefits of Lion’s Tail
While hummingbirds might be the star attraction, they’re not the only ones who’ll appreciate your new garden addition. Butterflies and bees will also flock to these fuzzy flowers, turning your yard into a pollinator paradise.
From a landscaping perspective, lion’s tail is a true showstopper. Its striking appearance makes it an excellent accent plant, perfect for Mediterranean, coastal, or cottage gardens.
And if you’re short on space? No problem! Lion’s tail does beautifully in containers and borders.
Propagation & Maintenance: Keeping the Lion’s Tail Roaring
Want to spread the lion’s tail love? Here’s how:
- Start from seed indoors in late winter.
- Transplant after the last frost.
- In warm climates, you can sow directly in the garden.
If you’re impatient (we get it!), try propagating from cuttings. Use greenwood cuttings for best results and root them in a well-draining medium.
Living in a colder climate? Don’t worry – you can still enjoy lion’s tail. Treat it as an annual in zones below 8, or consider planting in containers that you can bring indoors when temperatures dip below 20°F (-6°C).
Your Yard, the New Hummingbird Hotspot
By adding lion’s tail to your garden You’re rolling out the welcome mat for hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees. You’re adding a splash of vibrant color and intriguing texture to your landscape.
So why wait? It’s time to let your garden’s mane grow. With lion’s tail, you’re not just gardening – you’re creating a vibrant, buzzing, blooming adventure. Your yard is about to become the talk of the hummingbird community.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.