Appearance
The shrub grows 3 to 6 ft tall by 1.5 to 3.5 feet wide. The medium-dark green 2–4 inches long leaves are aromatic when crushed. The plant has tubular orange flowers in tiered whorls, typical to the mint family, that encircle the square stems. They rise above the foliage mass during the summer season, with flowering continuing into winter in warmer climates.Habitat
In its native habitats ''Leonotis leonurus'' attracts nectivorous birds , as well as various insects such as butterflies. The flowers' mainly orange to orange-red colour and tubular shape are indicative of its co-evolution with African sunbirds, which have curved bills suited to feeding from tubular flowers.Uses
The dried leaves and flowers have a mild calming effect when smoked. In some users, the effects have been noted to be similar to the cannabinoid THC found in ''Cannabis'', except that it has a much less potent high. It has also been reported to cause mild euphoria, visual changes, dizziness, nausea, sweating, sedation and lightheadedness.It is sometimes used as a ''Cannabis'' substitute by recreational users as an alternative to illegal psychoactive plants. ''Leonotis leonorus'' is not currently scheduled under federal law in the United States.
The picked and dried leaves are also commonly brewed as a tea.
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