Hi,

This is actually Lion's Ear (Leonotis nepetifolia) . It is very commonly mislabeled as Leonotis menthifolia or Leonotis leonurus by gardeners, seed traders, and even commercial sellers.

@zuzu

Also mislabeled,

Thanks, Danita. There's actually a bigger problem with this one. Leonotis menthifolia is not listed in any of the major taxonomic databases as an accepted name or a synonym, so all of the photos are in the wrong place. I'm trying to hunt down the origin of this name and to figure out why it's so popular. A Google search turns up dozens of vendors using this name. Does anyone have a clue as to why it's being used so widely in commerce but isn't listed in the taxonomic databases?

Hi Zuzu,

Uhhg!
I've seen it offered as Leonotis ocymifolia var. ocymifolia and that's the closest match that I've found so far. However, some sources still show conflicting forms so I wouldn't swear to it.

This genus is so muddled in the industry that it's difficult to find clear answers. I do know that the plant sold as "Leonotis menthifolia" is distinctly different in leaf shape, flower, and form/stature than Leonotis nepetifolia and Leonotis leonorus.

I think we need someone with a plant in one hand and a good taxonomic key in the other!

wow I didn't know I was getting into such confusion . Ty for all the info

Hi Sharon, your photo is of Leonotis nepetifolia so it will be an easy fix to move it to that entry. Someone just mislabeled the seeds or plant that they gave/sold you.

The confusing part is figuring out the real species epithet of what is now listed as "Leonotis menthifolia".

I just flipped the image too since it was on it's side, that will update in a couple of days though, system is slow right now.