About Leonotis nepetifolia (L.) R.Br.
Taxonomy and Common Names
Leonotis nepetifolia (L.) R.Br., also commonly called klip dagga, Christmas candlestick, or lion's ear, is a plant species belonging to the genus Leonotis and the mint family Lamiaceae.
Native and Introduced Range
It is native to tropical Africa and the Indian Subcontinent, and also grows abundantly across much of Latin America, Southeast Asia, the West Indies, and the Southeastern United States.
Height
This plant reaches up to 3 metres (9 ft 10 in) in height.
Flower Characteristics
It produces whorls of distinctive lipped flowers, which are most often orange, but may also appear in shades of red, white, or purple.
Leaf Characteristics
Its drooping dark green leaves are very soft, serrated, and can grow up to 10 centimetres (4 in) wide.
Faunal Interactions
Sunbirds and ants are attracted to its flowers.
Typical Habitat
It is typically found growing on roadsides, rubbish heaps, and waste land.
Invasive Status Assessment
It is classified as an invasive plant in Australia, Florida, and Hawaii, but researchers studying populations in Hawaii have concluded that its tendency to grow only in disturbed areas means it is not likely to be an ecological threat.
Local Common Name in Trinidad
In Trinidad, Leonotis nepetifolia is known locally as shandilay.
Traditional Medicinal Uses
Its leaves are brewed into a tea that is used to treat fever, coughs, womb prolapse, and malaria, and the tea is claimed to support bone and lung health.
Ayurvedic Herb Source
The roots of this species are recognized as the botanical source of granthiparna, an ayurvedic herb.
