Identifying Lantana: A Colorful Annual for Cool Climates

A gardener in central Ohio photographed a multi-colored flowering plant at the Farm Science Review in September. The plant is lantana (Lantana camara), a heat-loving tender perennial grown as an annual in Zone 6 and colder.

What to Know About Lantana

• Bloom time: Summer through frost.
• Colors: Clusters often mix yellow, orange, red, pink, and white on the same plant.
• Hardiness: Perennial in Zones 9–11; annual elsewhere.
• Care: Full sun, well-drained soil, moderate water. Drought-tolerant once established.
• Wildlife: Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds.

Growing in Cold Climates

In Ohio, plant lantana after all danger of frost. It thrives in containers or beds. Overwintering indoors is difficult due to high light needs; most gardeners treat it as an annual and replant each spring. For year-round growth, a heated greenhouse or very bright sunroom is required.

Enjoy its vibrant, changing colors all season—it’s a standout in any sunny garden.