Trailing Lantana
lantana montevidensis
Also known as: ["Creeping Lantana","Weeping Lantana"]
Overview
A trailing or creeping shrub native to South America, known for its vibrant, clustered flowers and aromatic foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Verbenaceae |
| Genus: | Lantana |
| Botanical Name: | Lantana montevidensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: ground cover in garden beds, or in large containers in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter; cactus or succulent mix works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 4–6 weeks during growing season; heavy pruning in late winter or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy; can be cut back by one-third to one-half for rejuvenation.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but blooms less.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure adequate ventilation if grown indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; use raised beds if drainage is poor; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Thrives in 70–90°F (21–32°C); tolerates mild frost but prefers warm conditions.
Protect from frost; avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain consistent warmth for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize in spring before new growth; dilute liquid fertilizer to half strength; stop fertilizing in late fall.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; softwood cuttings root easily in warm conditions.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; establish in new pot within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut back leggy stems to a healthy bud or node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or leggy growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or diseased wood first; make cuts at a 45-degree angle.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh, well-draining soil; water after repotting; avoid fertilizing for a month.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, allowing water to penetrate the root zone deeply; ensure excess water drains away; water early in the day to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, wilting, or stunted growth in cold; scorching or leaf burn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or dieback; vulnerable to frost damage below 28°F (-2°C).
Solution: Move to a sheltered location or indoors in cold weather; apply a thick layer of mulch to protect roots.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering; may require more frequent watering in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade if possible; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring; apply lightly every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid over-fertilizing.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are also susceptible to hepatotoxicity from Lantana montevidensis due to the same pentacyclic triterpenoids. The liver damage can be severe and may lead to long-term health complications.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Lantana montevidensis can lead to hepatotoxicity due to the presence of pentacyclic triterpenoids. These compounds disrupt liver function, potentially resulting in chronic liver disease or failure.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicLantana montevidensis contains hepatotoxic pentacyclic triterpenoids that can cause severe liver damage upon ingestion. The toxic compounds interfere with liver cell function, leading to significant physiological impairment.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Lantana montevidensis toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How much sunlight does Trailing Lantana need?
A: It thrives in full sun and requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Q: Does Trailing Lantana attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Verbenaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
