Leonotis leonurus
LAMIACEAE

• The sunbirds are coming! Conceivably the easiest plant to grow in a Cape garden, this is also one of the most rewarding. When its large, tubular flowers burst open, they provide birds, bees, butterflies and little children with a feast of nectar. No less than four species of sunbirds have been known to visit Leonotis leonurus flowers in gardens in Cape Town…can you name them? What’s more, if you’re in need of an excellent flu remedy, simply steep a few leaves in boiling water and drink the tea. Commonly known as wild dagga, it was originally smoked by the Khoekhoe people for its calming effects, much like cannabis.
• Flowering time in Cape Town: March-June, with a lesser show in spring
  In your garden: Plant in full sun in sand, loam or clay soils. Water to establish, extremely water-wise and fast-growing thereafter. Prune right back (20cm above ground level) after seedfall to promote fresh growth.
  Distribution: Common in rocky areas, grasslands and forest margins from the southwestern Cape to Gauteng
  Image: © James Puttick