Wild Dagga

This plant grows wild in South Africa and is used as a smokeable euphoric by the Hottentot tribe. Internally, the tea of the dried leaves is taken to treat headaches, bronchitis epilepsy, and the common cold. A remedy concocted out of the leaf and root is also used in treating snakebites as well as a natural remedy or charm to keep snakes away. An infusion of the flower and leaf is used to treat tapeworm. The twigs of this plant can be added into a warm bath to soothe diseases such as itchy skin and helps to relieve cramps in the muscles. L. leonurus has also been reported as a slimming medicine.

Stunning in the garden, these plants are truly majestic growing to 10 feet tall in fertile conditions. Hummingbirds love them. Beautiful flowers of long tubes of orange. Likes full sun and a hot climate. Tender perennial. Hardy to zones 9-12.  Very easy to grow but will do best in rich well drained loamy soils with plenty of compost added. Plant in full sun and provide adequate water during the growing season, application of organic fertilizer can be applied at the beginning of the new season as well as a thick layer of organic mulch to stimulate vigorous growth. Wild dagga can tolerate moderate to severe frost, but extreme cold will force the plants into complete dormancy. Cover the root zone with thick organic mulch in winter to protect the roots from freezing. Plants should be cut right back at the end of winter, top-dressed with well-rotted manure or compost and given a deep watering to stimulate the new summer seasons growth. Propagate from seed, cuttings or by dividing large clumps. Wild dagga can also be relocated at this time of the year if need be.