Shrubby Lantana

lantana aculeata

Also known as: ["West Indian Lantana","Red Sage"]

Family: Verbenaceae Genus: Lantana Category: Flowers

Overview

A hardy, evergreen shrub known for its clusters of colorful flowers and aromatic foliage.

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 aculeata

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in full sun, or container in a sunny patio
  • Suitable For:
    Busy People (low Maintenance) Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–40°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
  • 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 after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
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 to full sun gradually if moved from shade; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves (overwatering); stunted growth (poor soil); root rot (poor drainage).

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

moderate

Sunlight

full sun

Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light indoors; avoid placing in shaded corners.

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-drained, sandy loam with moderate organic content

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

Use raised beds for drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter.

Temperature

Thrives in warm conditions (65–85°F / 18–29°C); tolerates heat well; sensitive to frost.

Protect from frost; ensure good air flow in heat; adjust watering with temperature.

Fertilizing

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

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

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings (softwood or semi-hardwood).

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

Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.

Environment

Warm (70–75°F / 21–24°C), high humidity (70–80%), indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.

Hormone

Rooting hormone recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots in 3–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy parent stems; maintain humidity with a plastic bag; keep out of direct sun.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut back leggy stems to encourage branching.

Pruning Plan

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

Tools

Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant.

Checklist

Disinfect tools; prune dead/diseased growth; shape plant; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before active growth begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).

Method

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

Suggestions

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

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; 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 in the morning to reduce 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 or leaf drop in cold; wilting or stunted growth in excessive heat.

Cold Stress

Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or drop; risk of frost damage below 32°F (0°C).

Solution: Move to a warmer location; cover with frost cloth if outdoors; reduce watering in cold.

Hot Stress

Wilting despite moist soil; leaf scorch; reduced flowering.

Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity; water deeply in early morning.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid foliage contact.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Lantana aculeata may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations such as spider mites or aphids. It can also be a sign of viral infections or root rot.

Wilting in Lantana aculeata is often caused by water stress, either due to under or overwatering. It can also result from root damage, pest infestations, or fungal infections affecting the vascular system.

Leaf spots on Lantana aculeata are commonly caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, such as Cercospora or Xanthomonas, leading to defoliation and reduced photosynthetic efficiency.

Rotting in Lantana aculeata is typically associated with root or stem rot caused by overwatering or fungal pathogens like Fusarium or Phytophthora, leading to decay and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Cats are also susceptible to hepatotoxicity from Lantana aculeata. The toxic compounds can cause significant liver damage, leading to severe health complications or death if not treated promptly.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting lethargy jaundice depression anorexia
🌿 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

In dogs, ingestion of Lantana aculeata can lead to hepatotoxicity due to the presence of toxic triterpenoids. These compounds disrupt liver function, potentially causing chronic liver disease or acute liver failure.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting lethargy jaundice loss of appetite abdominal pain
🌿 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 aculeata contains hepatotoxic pentacyclic triterpenoids that can cause severe liver damage upon ingestion. The toxic compounds interfere with liver function, leading to hepatotoxicity and potential liver failure in severe cases.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting abdominal pain jaundice liver failure
🌿 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 immediate medical attention if ingestion occurs.
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 aculeata toxic to pets?

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

Q: How often should I water Lantana aculeata?

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

Q: Does Lantana attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts 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
Suitable For: ["busy people (low maintenance)","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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