FREE: 'Lion's Tail' - 20 seeds

The listing, 'Lion's Tail' - 20 seeds has ended.

The exotic, round flower clusters are 2-3 inches across, and stack themselves every 8-12 inches along tall stems, giving the appearance of an alien car antenna. The plant grows quickly to about 6 to 8 feet tall if left unpruned. This is a terrific background or accent plant, adding a bold splash of color anywhere you need it. The rich orange flower tubes that emerge are furry - which of course explains the name "lion's tail". You can pull out the tubes and suck on the sweet nectar inside! Hummingbirds and butterflies love 'em! The heart-shaped leaves resemble those of Catnip, hence the species name nepetifolia (Nepeta = catnip). Lion's Tail is very easy to grow. It's an evergreen perennial if protected from frost (zones 9-10). In colder areas, you can grow it in a pot and bring it indoors over the winter. Or just grow it as an annual each spring, saving the seed in the Fall. It prefers full sun to a half-day of sun. It's drought-tolerant once established, although it looks best with occasional watering and feeding. It can bloom throughout the year in mild-winter areas.
In Africa, where this Mint relative originates, the flowers are smoked for a mild euphoric effect. Personally, i use it as an intriguing dried flower for arrangements! This is a fascinating and fun plant that everyone should grow.