Yellow Lantana

lantana viburnoides

Also known as: ["Yellow Sage","Yellow Lantana"]

Family: Verbenaceae Genus: Lantana Category: Flowers

Overview

A flowering shrub native to tropical regions, known for its vibrant yellow flowers and hardy nature.

Benefits & Perks

["long-flowering","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","fragrant flowers"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Lamiales
Family: Verbenaceae
Genus: Lantana
Botanical Name: Lantana viburnoides

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in full sun, or large container in a sunny spot
  • Suitable For:
    Busy People (low Maintenance) Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: high
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant’s growth if overgrown.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to full sun gradually; protect from intense midday sun in hot regions; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil drainage or nutrient issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

moderate

Sunlight

full sun

Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light indoors; avoid sudden light changes.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.

Soil

well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0)

Use a cactus mix as a base; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost annually.

Temperature

Thrives in warm conditions (65–85°F or 18–29°C); prefers stable temperatures; sensitive to frost.

Protect from frost; avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter

Fertilize less frequently in winter; apply to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and warm.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), high humidity, and indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand

Hormone

Rooting hormone is recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic bag; avoid direct sunlight.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut just above a leaf node or bud.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased growth.

Tools

Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape the plant; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil health.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water early in the day to minimize evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without wetting foliage.
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 sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), leaf drop, stunted growth, or bud drop.

Cold Stress

Leaves may wilt, turn yellow, or drop; growth halts; prolonged cold can cause root damage.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.

Hot Stress

Wilting, leaf scorch, reduced flowering, or leaf drop due to excessive heat.

Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during growing season; avoid overfertilization.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Lantana viburnoides may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting the plant's photosynthetic efficiency and overall health.

Wilting in Lantana viburnoides can result from water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Lantana viburnoides may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to reduced photosynthesis and potential defoliation if left untreated.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Lantana viburnoides due to excessive moisture or fungal pathogens, causing decay and eventual death of the plant.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Cats are also susceptible to hepatotoxicity from Lantana viburnoides due to pyrrolizidine alkaloids. The liver damage can be severe and life-threatening, requiring prompt veterinary intervention.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting depression anorexia jaundice hepatic encephalopathy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves berries
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. If ingestion is suspected, seek veterinary care without delay.
Dogs
Toxic

Ingestion of Lantana viburnoides by dogs can lead to hepatotoxicity due to the presence of pyrrolizidine alkaloids. These compounds cause progressive liver damage, which can be fatal if untreated.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting lethargy loss of appetite jaundice liver failure
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves berries
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep dogs away from the plant. If ingestion is suspected, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Humans
Toxic

Lantana viburnoides contains hepatotoxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids that can cause liver damage upon ingestion. The toxic compounds accumulate in the liver, leading to chronic liver disease and potential failure over time.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting abdominal pain jaundice liver damage
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves berries
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of any part of the plant. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Seek medical attention immediately if ingestion is suspected.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Lantana viburnoides toxic to pets?

A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.

Q: How often should I water Lantana viburnoides?

A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.

Q: Does Lantana viburnoides attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its fragrant flowers.

Quick Reference
Family: Verbenaceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["busy people (low maintenance)","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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