Nepeta L.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

Leonotis nepetifolia, also commonly called klip dagga, Christmas candlestick, or lion's ear, is a plant species that belongs to the genus Leonotis in the mint family Lamiaceae.

Native and Introduced Range

It is native to tropical Africa and the Indian Subcontinent, and grows abundantly in much of Latin America, Southeast Asia, the West Indies, and the Southeastern United States.

Plant Height

This plant reaches a maximum height of 3 metres (9 ft 10 in).

Flower Characteristics

It produces whorls of distinctive lipped flowers; the most common flower color is orange, but blooms may also be red, white, or purple.

Leaf Characteristics

Its leaves are drooping, dark green, very soft, and serrated, and can grow up to 10 centimetres (4 in) wide.

Flower Visitors

Sunbirds and ants are attracted to its flowers.

Habitat

It is typically found growing on roadsides, rubbish heaps, and waste land.

Invasive Status

Leonotis nepetifolia is classified as an invasive plant in Australia, Florida, and Hawaii.

Ecological Threat Assessment

However, researchers studying the species in Hawaii have concluded that its tendency to grow in disturbed areas means it is not likely to pose an ecological threat.

Traditional Medicine Naming

In traditional medicine, Leonotis nepetifolia is called shandilay in Trinidad.

Medicinal Leaf Uses

Its leaves are brewed into a tea that is used to treat fever, coughs, womb prolapse, and malaria, and the tea is also said to be beneficial for bone and lung health.

Ayurvedic Source

The roots of Leonotis nepetifolia are recognized as the botanical source of granthiparna, an Ayurvedic herb.