Lion's Tail Alba Seeds — Leonotis leonurus

Striking White Whorls on Tall Architectural Stems

Lion's Tail Alba (Leonotis leonurus) is a bold and dramatic perennial that commands attention in any garden. The white form of the classic orange Lion's Tail, Alba produces tiered whorls of tubular white flowers stacked along tall, square stems — a stunning architectural statement from late summer through autumn. Rarely available in New Zealand, this is a genuine find for gardeners seeking something truly distinctive. Native to South Africa, it thrives in the NZ climate and is a magnet for nectar-feeding birds and insects alike.

Why Gardeners Love It

• 🤍 Striking white tiered whorls — bold, architectural, and unlike anything else in the border
• 🐦 Attracts nectar feeders — irresistible to tūī, waxeyes, and other nectar-loving birds
• 🐝 Excellent pollinator plant — bees and butterflies love it
• 🌿 Tall and dramatic — grows to 1.5–2 m, perfect for the back of the border or as a feature plant
• ☀️ Drought tolerant once established — thrives in warm, sunny, well-drained positions
• 🍂 Long flowering season — blooms from late summer well into autumn

Growing Tips for New Zealand

Sow seeds in spring into a fine seed-raising mix at 20–25°C. Seeds can be slow and erratic to germinate — patience is rewarded. Grow seedlings on in a warm, sheltered position before planting out after the last frost. Plant in full sun in a well-drained soil; Lion's Tail dislikes wet, cold conditions. Once established it is vigorous and drought hardy. Particularly well suited to warmer NZ regions such as Northland, Auckland, Hawke's Bay, and Nelson.

What's in the Packet

Each packet contains 10 seeds of Lion's Tail Alba (Leonotis leonurus), with growing instructions included.