Plant Form: Semi-evergreen shrub
Water Use: Low
Mature Size: 3-6 ft. tall x 2-3 ft. wide
Exposure: Full sun
Bloom Time: Summer (Aug), Fall (Sept-Nov)
Hardiness: Cold Hardy to 20°F
Native to: South Africa
Lion’s Tail is prized for its dazzling, tubular flowers covered with a fur-like coat of fine hairs, said to resemble either lions’ tails or lions’ ears. Tiered whorls of orange blossoms encircle the square stems, which are covered with dark green, lance-shaped leaves. The abundant flowers are a magnet for hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees, but seem to resist browsing by deer and rabbits. Cut flowers are good in arrangements. Plants are not fussy about soil type as long as it is well drained. This easy-care plant is virtually pest free and disease free. Prune yearly after flowering, and mulch well over winter to protect the wood crown from cold. If this more tender plant freezes back in winter, new growth often re-sprouts from hardened wood. Use this striking plant in borders and beds, containers cottage and Mediterranean gardens, and even for screening.
THIS MONTH IN YOUR DESERT-SMART LANDSCAPE
Mid-September to mid-October starts the most important planting season of the year
- Plant native and drought-tolerant plants; warm soils helps new plants develop deep roots before summer, reducing water needs during new plants’ entire two to three year establishment period
- Fall opportunity to transplant Joshua trees and yuccas from September to October
- Reduce water to cactus and succulents to prepare them for winter rest and protect against frost damage