Lantana (Lantana camara): Colorful Clusters for Sunny Gardens

Lantana (Lantana camara) is a tough, heat-loving shrub prized for its continuous display of multi-colored flower clusters from spring to frost. The small tubular flowers change color as they age, creating a kaleidoscope of yellow, orange, red, and pink on a single plant. This versatile perennial (often grown as an annual in cooler zones) attracts butterflies and hummingbirds while tolerating drought and poor soil.

Growth Habit

Lantana forms a mounding, spreading shrub 2–6 feet tall and wide, depending on variety and climate. The rough, aromatic leaves deter deer and rabbits. In frost-free regions, it can become a woody perennial; elsewhere, treat it as a warm-season annual.

Care

Plant in full sun and well-drained soil. Once established, lantana is remarkably drought-tolerant. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowers. Prune lightly in spring to maintain shape. In zones 8–11, it may survive winter with mulch protection.

Taxonomy

• Family: Verbenaceae
• Genus: Lantana
• Species: camara
• Synonyms: Lantana aculeata, Lantana armata, Lantana mista