Lions Tail Plant Seeds:
Guide to Storing, Sowing and Germination

If you’re a gardening enthusiast looking to add some unique and vibrant plants to your collection, the Lions Tail plant (Leonotis leonurus) is an excellent choice. Known for its striking orange flowers and impressive height, this South African native is a favorite among gardeners worldwide. While starting your own Lions Tail plant from seeds may seem daunting at first, with the right knowledge and techniques, you can successfully store, sow, and germinate these beautiful plants. In this guide, we will take you through the step-by-step process of growing Lions Tail plants from seeds.

Storing Lions Tail Plant Seeds

Before you delve into sowing and germinating Lions Tail plant seeds, it’s crucial to store them correctly to ensure their viability. Here are some essential tips for storing Lions Tail plant seeds:

1. Harvesting: Wait until the flowers on your Lions Tail plant have dried out completely before collecting the seeds. The seedheads should turn brown and start to split open naturally.

2. Seed Extraction: Carefully remove the seedheads from the plant, ensuring they are fully dry. Shake or tap the seedheads gently over a clean container to release the seeds.

3. Cleaning: Remove any debris or chaff from the collected seeds by gently blowing on them or using a fine-mesh sieve.

4. Drying: Spread the cleaned seeds out in a single layer on a paper towel or a clean, dry surface. Allow them to air dry completely for about one to two weeks.

5. Storage Containers: Once dried, transfer the seeds to an airtight container or a small envelope. It’s essential to keep them in a cool, dark place away from moisture and direct sunlight.

By following these steps, you can store your Lions Tail plant seeds for up to two years while maintaining their viability.

Sowing Lions Tail Plant Seeds

Now that you have properly stored your Lions Tail plant seeds, it’s time to move on to the sowing process. Here’s how you can sow your Lions Tail plant seeds effectively:

1. Soil Preparation: Choose a well-draining soil mix for sowing your Lions Tail plant seeds. A mixture of potting soil and perlite or sand works well. Fill seed trays or small pots with the soil mix, leaving about an inch of space at the top.

2. Moistening the Soil: Moisten the soil lightly by spraying it with water until it is evenly damp but not soaking wet.

3. Sowing Depth: Sprinkle the Lions Tail plant seeds evenly over the soil surface. Lightly press them into the soil using your fingertips, ensuring they are just covered with a thin layer of soil.

4. Covering and Labeling: Cover the trays or pots with plastic wrap to create a greenhouse effect that promotes moisture retention and germination. Label each container with the date and seed variety to avoid confusion.

5. Temperature and Light: Place the containers in a warm location with temperatures around 70-75°F (21-24°C). Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight at this stage, as it may cause excessive drying.

6. Moisture Maintenance: Check the moisture level regularly and mist the soil if it starts to feel dry. Be careful not to overwater, as excessive moisture can lead to fungal diseases.

By following these steps, you can ensure optimal conditions for germinating your Lions Tail plant seeds.

Germinating Lions Tail Plant Seeds

Once you’ve sown your Lions Tail plant seeds, it’s time to focus on their germination. Here are some essential tips for successful germination:

1. Germination Time: Lions Tail plant seeds usually take around 7-21 days to germinate. Be patient and maintain the proper conditions during this period.

2. Light Exposure: Once the seeds have sprouted, gradually expose them to increasing amounts of light. Start with indirect sunlight and slowly transition to a location with full sun over a few days.

3. Thinning Out: As the seedlings grow, thin them out if they become overcrowded. This allows sufficient space for each plant to develop properly.

4. Transplanting: When the seedlings have developed two or three sets of true leaves, they are ready for transplantation into larger pots or directly into the garden. Handle the seedlings carefully to avoid damaging their delicate roots.

5. Hardening Off: Before planting them outdoors, gradually acclimate the seedlings to outdoor conditions by exposing them to short periods of time outside each day. This process, known as hardening off, helps the plants adjust to the environmental changes.

By following these steps, you can successfully germinate your Lions Tail plant seeds and prepare them for a healthy growth journey.

In conclusion, growing Lions Tail plants from seeds is an exciting and rewarding experience for any gardener. By properly storing, sowing, and germinating the seeds, you can enjoy the beauty of these vibrant orange flowers in your garden or indoor space. Remember to provide adequate care and attention throughout their growth journey, and soon enough, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning display of Lions Tail plants. Happy gardening!