Wild Dagga

Afrikaans name: Wildedagga

Wild Dagga

Photo © Steven Herbert

Leonotis leonurus

Another name for Wild Dagga is the Lion's Tail, presumably because of the orange colouration (even though lions aren't orange).

It is a scraggly looking shrub that bears lots of orange flowers.

The flowers attract a variety of sunbirds and butterflies which feed on the nectar. It is also popular with gardeners (for their looks and not the nectar).

The plant is interesting in that it has toxic qualities yet it is used in both traditional medicines as well as being smoked by some people (you were wondering where the name Wild Dagga came from...)

Above - Wild Dagga

Photo © Steven Herbert

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References and further reading

A Photographic Guide to Wild Flowers of South Africa - Author: Braam van Wyk - Year Published: 2000 - Page: 65

Adventure Trails in Kirstenbosch - Author: Daphne Mackie - Year Published: 2012 - Page: 72

Reader's Digest Illustrated Guide to the Game Parks and Nature Reserves of Southern Africa - 2nd edi - Author: Editor - Alan Duggan - Year Published: 1991 - Page: 393

Sasol First Field Guide to Wild Flowers of Southern Africa - Author: John Manning - Year Published: 1999 - Page: 52

Sasol First Field Guide to Wild Flowers of Southern Africa - Author: John Manning - Year Published: 1999 - Page: 52