LEONOTIS leonurus

Evergreen - to semi evergreen. Lance-shaped, entire or scalloped, mid- to deep-green leaves 6-12cm (2½-5in) long.

Height - 2m (6½ft)

Spread - 1m (39in)

Tall Shrub - upright shrub

Half hardy - unheated greenhouse / mild winter - Hardy in coastal and relatively mild parts of the UK except in severe winters and a risk from sudden (early) frosts. May be hardy elsewhere with wall shelter or good micro-climate. Likely to be damaged or killed in cold winters. Plant can withstand temperatures down to -5°C (23°F)

Full sun

Additional Features - Good to know - in the mint family. Attracts butterflies.

Medicinal properties - almost a cure-all in African tribal medicine.

Pests & Diseases - red spider mite, whitefly, botrytis if in greenhouse or conservatory. Should be fine if grown outside

Place of origin - South Africa.

Flower Shape - Tubular - tubular, two-lipped flowers 5cm (2in) long

Garden Location/Conditions - Greenhouse / conservatory - Not the sort of plants to be grown outside where there are likely to be frosts. These plants need to be grown in a conservatory or cool greenhouse or at least brought inside for the winter

Hardiness - Frost hardy (down to -5) -

Seasonal Interest - Autumn

Soil Conditions - Fertile well drained soil - for greenhouse use loam based compost and full light.

Wildlife - Butterfly friendly