Shrubby Lantana
lantana camara
Also known as: ["Red Sage","West Indian Lantana"]
Overview
A vigorous, evergreen shrub known for its clusters of colorful flowers that attract butterflies and hummingbirds.
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 camara |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in full sun, or large container in a sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–40°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 added organic matter; cactus or succulent mix works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- 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 midday sun in hot climates; ensure adequate airflow to prevent sunburn.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; place in south-facing outdoor location.
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 diseases.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; use mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Temperature
Thrives in warm conditions (65–90°F or 18–32°C); prefers stable temperatures; sensitive to frost.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; maintain consistent warmth for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize lightly to avoid excessive foliage at the expense of flowers; water before fertilizing to prevent root burn; avoid fertilizing stressed plants.
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 (70–80°F or 21–27°C), humid, and partially shaded environment.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic bags or propagator for humidity.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; keep out of direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut just above a leaf node or bud; remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and promote flowering; remove dead or diseased growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape the plant; remove spent flowers; avoid over-pruning.
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 a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if crowded; water well after repotting; place in appropriate light.
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, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow water to drain freely; 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
Chlorosis, wilting, bud drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Leaves may turn purple or black; growth slows or halts; risk of frost damage or death in temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a sheltered location or indoors in cold weather; apply a thick layer of mulch to insulate roots; use frost cloth for protection.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, reduced flowering, or leaf drop in prolonged high temperatures.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good airflow.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply during active growth; water before and after fertilizing; avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring; apply liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are also susceptible to the hepatotoxic effects of Lantana camara. The plant's toxic compounds can cause significant liver damage, leading to impaired liver function and potential failure.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Lantana camara can lead to hepatotoxicity, causing liver damage and dysfunction. The toxic compounds are metabolized in the liver, leading to oxidative stress and cellular damage.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicLantana camara contains hepatotoxic pentacyclic triterpenoids, which 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:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Lantana camara toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Lantana camara?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Lantana camara attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Verbenaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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