Common lantana - Lantana camara (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images, Toxic)

Common lantana

Also known as: Yellow sage, Umbelanterna

The common lantana is a flowering plant that grows best in tropical environments. It spread outside the Americas when the Dutch brought it to Europe. The plant is generally regarded as an unwanted weed that reduces biodiversity. Additionally, it is toxic to livestock and harms the output of farmland.

Scientific classification

Species

Common lantana (Lantana camara)

Mints plantains olives and allies

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Toxic to Human & Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

All year round

Harvest Time

1 m to 2 m

Plant Height

1.8 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

1.5 cm to 2.5 cm

Flower Size

Purple, Green, Black, Blue, Lavender

Fruit Color

Yellow, Red, Orange, Pink, White, Purple, Lavender, Gold

Flower Color

Green, Red, Yellow

Stem Color

Non-dormant

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 41 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer, Fall

Growth Season

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Common lantana

Distribution of Common lantana

Distribution Map

Common lantana originates from the tropical regions of North America, where it thrives on rainforest edges, beaches, and disturbed grounds. It has spread around the globe as an ornamental shrub, but frequently escapes cultivation and is considered an invasive species and major weed in many countries, including Australia, India, South Africa, and several US states.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Plantation, pastures

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Environmental Protection Value

Effects of soil consolidation, water conservation, soil improvement, fertility improvement and ecological environment improvement are obvious.

Economic Value

In industry, roots of the common lantana can be made into rubber, and the stems are raw materials for papermaking. Adding tobacco to the leaves can increase aroma or replace sandpaper for polishing.

Garden Use

Common lantana is planted along streets and in gardens for attractive borders, and can be used as a hedge. It is very popular in flower gardens for its bright, showy blooms and quick, aggressive growth. Growers also appreciate it for its hardiness against insects. This plant pairs well with citrus trees, succulents, and rock rose shrubs.

Symbolism

Rigor, nobility

Interesting Facts

The branches, leaves and flowers of Lantana can volatilize odor that is very sensitive for mosquitoes and flies but no harm to humans. That is why it has a strong effect of repelling mosquitoes and flies. Moreover, it has brilliant and changeable color. It has the reputation of "seven-changeable mosquitoes repellent". So it has the dual functions of expelling mosquitoes and beautifying courtyards.

Name Story

Common lantana: This plant is often called common lantana, in which lantana is a Latin name for the wayfaring tree, Viburnum lantana, because they both have similar-looking flowers.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Common lantana, including the following common varieties :

Lantana 'Radiation'Lantana 'Dallas Red'Denholm white lantana Lantana 'Miss Huff'

Toxicity

All parts of common lantana are toxic when ingested, causing acute hemorrhagic diarrhea and other serious symptoms. It can induce poisoning in dogs and cats, leading to respiratory distress, jaundice, and liver failure, with berries being the most toxic. Children are particularly vulnerable due to accidental ingestion and their smaller body weight.

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Quickly Identify Common lantana

Oppositely arranged, coarse-toothed leaves emitting strong fragrance when crushed.

Spherical clusters of multi-colored tubular flowers, 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) in size.

Berry-like drupe fruit transitioning from green to orange, red, then metallic blue or purple-black.

Spiny, square stems covered in bristly hairs, maturing with scattered hooked prickles.

Versatile shrub from 1-6 feet (30-180 cm) tall, with sprawling growth form and dense foliage.

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Care Guide for Common lantana

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 41 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Common lantana thrives in humid environments, requiring watering every 1-2 weeks for optimal health. Adapted to tropical regions, it endures heavy rains and dry periods. As an evergreen, common lantana retains its lush appearance year-round, even in drier seasons.

Fertilize: Common lantana requires balanced, moderate fertilization for optimal growth. Use a monthly N-P-K fertilizer during the growing season, reducing to bi-monthly in winter. Always water soil beforehand to prevent root burn and ensure safe handling, as common lantana can be toxic.

Pruning: Common lantana is a vibrant shrub with colorful flowers. Prune in early spring, removing up to one-third of the plant to encourage growth and prevent legginess. Use sharp, clean tools to reduce disease risk, enhancing common lantana's overall health and bloom production.

Propagation: Common lantana is an ornamental shrub, known for its vibrant flowers and adaptability. For propagation, use healthy cuttings with leaf nodes, remove lower leaves, apply rooting hormone, and plant in well-draining soil. Maintain consistent moisture to ensure high success rates and characteristic new plants.

Repotting: Repot common lantana every 2-3 years in spring using a slightly larger pot. After repotting, ensure bright indirect light and maintain moist, well-draining soil. Regular pruning will help sustain its compact shape and promote blooming.

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Images of Common lantana

Distribution of Common lantana

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Common lantana

Care Guide for Common lantana

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