Pruning Lantana in Arizona (Zone 9b): Timing and Severity for Yellow, Purple, and Red Types

General Rule for Phoenix Area

Lantanas are subtropical. Light cleanup in Nov; hard prune in late Feb–March after frost danger.

By Color/Type

• Yellow (‘New Gold’) — toughest. Hard prune in Jan/Feb works.
• Purple/Red — more tender. Do not hard prune in winter. Light trim only if messy.

Why Purple Failed Before

Likely a weaker plant or harder prune. These cultivars have less cold tolerance.

Recommended Schedule

1. Nov: Remove dead tips, shape lightly.
2. Feb (after last avg frost): Hard prune to 6–12 inches if needed.
3. Spring: Fertilize, water — new growth blooms in 6–8 weeks.

Key Insight

Spring pruning delays bloom slightly but ensures survival. Winter severity kills tender types.