Leonotis ocymifolia aka Lion's Tail

Leonotis ocymifolia is a slim shrub in the mint family. This family bears the name Lamiaceae. Its native range runs from Eritrea south to South Africa. Useful Tropical Plants also places it west as far as Angola. It forms part of Africa's tropical plant life where seasons bring dry spells. It is not native to Britain or Ireland. The account covers a wild plant, not a farmed crop. People at times gather it to flavour food. They also gather it for use in folk medicine.

The shrub branches from a thick, woody base. Reports give heights of about 3–16 feet [1–5 metres]. Useful Tropical Plants also gives 8 feet [2.5 metres]. Neither tells us its usual size in a garden. The sources give no width or clear crown shape. They give no bark, leaf shape, or fruit details for this species. The RHS describes flowers and leaves for the genus alone. Those traits may not match this species' exact looks. They do not tell us when this species blooms.

In the wild, this shrub grows among rocks and on hillsides. Water drains well through the soils at its known sites. Many sites lie 3,281–6,562 feet [1,000–2,000 metres] above sea level. It reaches sea level in the south of its range. These facts show where it grows in the wild. They do not give tested advice for garden care. Useful Tropical Plants says growers can raise it from seed. It gives no other advice on how to grow it. The sources give no hardiness rating or measured frost limit. They set no firm needs for light, water, or soil pH. They name no pests, diseases, or specific landscape use.

People use young leaves to season local foods. This small role does not show use as a staple food. Folk medicine uses leaves and stems that bear flowers. Reported uses aim to bring on menstruation, or monthly bleeding. They also include use as a purgative to empty the bowels. Other uses inside the body concern diabetes, high blood pressure, and anaemia. People have used leaf washes for eczema and sore, irritated skin. These folk uses do not prove that treatment is safe. Useful Tropical Plants lists no known hazards for this species. That does not prove safety for people or pets. The evidence gives no dose or advice on medical safety. It lists no uses beyond food flavouring and medicine.