Klip Dagga (Leonotis nepetifolia) is a fast-growing tropical annual that brings whimsical, otherworldly charm to warm-climate gardens. Its fuzzy orange tubular flowers emerge from pincushion-like bracts stacked along ridged green stems, creating a playfully Seussian appearance that hummingbirds find irresistible. Hardy in zones 10-11, this adaptable plant reaches up to 10 feet tall in a single season and flowers prolifically from seed within 70 days, thriving equally well in garden beds or containers across a range of soil conditions.
Full Sun
Moderate
10-11
120in H x 36in W
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High
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The real magic of Klip Dagga lies in its theatrical appearance and magnetic effect on hummingbirds. Orange flowers emerge intermittently along the entire height of the plant, creating successive waves of bloom rather than one concentrated flush. Its adaptability is genuinely impressive for a tropical species; it handles variable soils, container growing, and even less-than-perfect conditions without complaint. Gardeners drawn to unusual textures and movement will find the fuzzy bracts and darting hummingbirds provide endless visual interest through the warm months.
Klip Dagga is grown primarily as an ornamental flowering plant, valued for its visual drama and as a nectar source for hummingbirds. The striking orange flowers and sculptural bracts serve as focal points in tropical and warm-climate gardens, while its hummingbird-attracting properties make it a functional choice for wildlife gardening.
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Start seeds indoors in warm conditions 6-8 weeks before your last frost date. Klip Dagga germinates best in temperatures around 70-75°F. Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during germination.
Transplant seedlings outdoors only after all frost danger has passed and soil has warmed, ideally in zones 10-11 where frost is rare. Harden off plants gradually by exposing them to outdoor conditions over 7-10 days before final planting. Space transplants 24 inches apart.
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