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The Lion’s Ear Plant: A Complete Guide and Care Tips
Gardening enthusiasts are always on the lookout for new plants to add to their collection.
One plant that has gained popularity in recent years is the Lion’s Ear Plant.
Also known as Wild Dagga, this perennial shrub is native to Southern Africa and belongs to the mint family.
Appearance
The Lion’s Ear Plant can grow up to six feet tall, but it usually ranges between three and five feet in height.
It has green leaves that are toothed with a velvety texture, making them soft to touch.
The flowers of this plant are tubular-shaped and can be orange or yellow in color.
Cultivation
The Lion’s Ear Plant thrives in climates with hot summers and mild winters.
It grows well in full sun or partial shade with well-draining soil.
This plant requires regular watering during its growing season but can tolerate short periods of drought.
- Plant your Lion’s Ear seeds indoors about four weeks before the last frost date or sow them directly into your garden after all danger of frost has passed.
- Choose an area with full sun exposure (at least six hours of direct sunlight per day).
- Add organic matter (such as compost) into the soil before planting.
- Space plants at least two feet apart from each other so they have room to grow.
- Mulch around your plants once they have been established; this will help conserve moisture levels while also suppressing weeds growth around it..
Care Tips
If you want your Lion’s Ear Plants healthy, here are some tips for maintaining their care:
- Water deeply once a week or when the soil feels dry to the touch.
- Fertilize your plant with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season in spring and fall.
The best time to fertilize is after watering.
- Prune your plant regularly to control its height and remove any dead or damaged growth.
- In colder climates, cover your plant with mulch or burlap during winter months.
This will help protect it from frost and freezing damage that could be fatal for the plant .
Potential Benefits
The Lion’s Ear Plant has been used traditionally in Southern African medicine as a remedy for various ailments.
It contains several active compounds that have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antiviral, antimicrobial properties.
Studies have also shown that these compounds may potentially improve heart health, stimulate appetite and reduce anxiety levels.
Conclusion
The Lion’s Ear Plant is not just another pretty addition to your garden but has potential benefits too.
With proper care and cultivation techniques such as regular watering along with organic matter added into soil before planting them out – you can enjoy its beauty year after year while ensuring it thrives!
