Leo
Sign 5 of 12 · 120°–150° of the ecliptic
Leo is a fixed fire sign. Astrologers associate it with warmth, creativity, pride and self-expression. In the tropical zodiac the Sun is in Leo from about 23 July to 22 August.
| Symbol | ♌ The Lion |
|---|---|
| Element | Fire |
| Modality | Fixed |
| Polarity | Masculine (active), diurnal |
| Ruler | Sun |
| Exaltation | — |
| Detriment | Saturn |
| Fall | — |
| Opposite sign | ♒ Aquarius |
| Body (traditional melothesia) | Heart and upper back |
| Tropical Sun dates (approx.) | 23 July – 22 August |
Leo in a chart
Sun in Leo: identity expressed through warmth. Moon in Leo: emotional needs coloured by fire and a fixed rhythm. Leo rising: a first impression in the style of Leo, with Sun as chart ruler.
Across traditions
| Tradition | Name | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Western (tropical) | Leo | Measured from the March equinox. The Sun enters around 23 July. |
| Vedic (sidereal) | Simha (सिंह) | Lord: Surya (Sun). With the Lahiri ayanamsa the Sun enters around 17 August. |
| Chinese | No equivalent | Chinese astrology has no Sun signs. The 12 animals count years, months and hours. |
Test yourself
Which element does Leo belong to?
Learn it properly in the courseBuilt from the Astrolysis facts table western/signs/leo.