Klip Dagga, Christmas Candlestick
leonotis nepetifolia
Also known as: ["Christmas Candlestick","Klip Dagga","Lion's Ear"]
Overview
A tall annual herbaceous plant with whorls of orange flowers resembling lion's ears, native to tropical Africa and naturalized in many parts of the world.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","fast growing","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Leonotis |
| Botanical Name: | Leonotis nepetifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering or every 2–3 months during growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but blooms best in direct light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sun; place near south-facing window indoors.
Watering
every 5–7 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, moderately fertile soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Warm conditions (65–85°F/18–29°C); sensitive to frost; thrives in tropical to subtropical climates.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop feeding in fall to prepare for dormancy; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings root easily in warm conditions.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F/21–27°C), humid, and bright but indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix like perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone can be used but is not strictly necessary.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; plant can be transplanted after 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic bag; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Clean tools; prune dead or leggy stems; shape plant; remove spent flowers.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and flowering.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; scorching or leaf curl in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Growth halts; leaves may turn yellow or brown; risk of frost damage or death in temperatures below 50°F/10°C.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced flowering; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute properly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume Leonotis nepetifolia. The plant is not highly toxic to cats but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Leonotis nepetifolia can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. While not typically life-threatening, it can cause discomfort and should be avoided.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicLeonotis nepetifolia contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and allergic reactions in some individuals. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can be problematic for sensitive individuals or in large quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Leonotis nepetifolia toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.
Q: How tall does Leonotis nepetifolia grow?
A: It can grow up to 6 feet tall in favorable conditions.
Q: Does Leonotis nepetifolia attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 5–7 days during active |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
