French Lantana

lantana achyranthifolia

Also known as: ["French Shrubverbena","Swamp Lantana"]

Family: Verbenaceae Genus: Lantana Category: Shrubs

Overview

A small, aromatic shrub with clusters of small, tubular flowers that typically bloom in shades of yellow, orange, or pink. It is known for its resilience in harsh conditions and its ability to attract pollinators.

Benefits & Perks

["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","fragrant flowers"]

Botanical Classification

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

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Shrubs
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in full sun, or container in a sunny spot
  • Suitable For:
    Busy People (low Maintenance) Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: high
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning after flowering to encourage rebloom.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant 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 gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent leaf burn.

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

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

easy

Sunlight

full sun

Full sun is best; rotate plant for even growth; avoid deep shade.

Watering

every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings

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

Soil

well-draining, sandy or loamy soil

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0)

Ensure fast drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for nutrients.

Temperature

Thrives in 70–90°F (21–32°C); tolerates mild frosts but prefers warm conditions.

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

Fertilizing

every 6–8 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer

Fertilize lightly; avoid over-fertilization; apply before new growth emerges.

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

High humidity, warm temperatures (70–80°F), indirect light

Medium

Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand

Hormone

Optional, but recommended for faster rooting

Timeline

Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months

Tools Needed

Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut back leggy stems to a healthy bud.

Pruning Plan

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

Tools

Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant

Checklist

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

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before new growth begins

Pot Size

One size larger pot; ensure good drainage holes.

Method

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

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for container-grown plants.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot; 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; water until it drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage.

Pro Tip: Water early in the morning 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 sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Leaf drop, wilting, or stunted growth in extreme cold; scorching or yellowing in excessive heat.

Cold Stress

Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn brown or drop; risk of frost damage in freezing temperatures.

Solution: Move to a sheltered location; apply a thick mulch; protect from frost with a cover.

Hot Stress

Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering; may drop leaves to conserve water.

Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during active growth; stop in winter.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength monthly during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Lantana achyranthifolia may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations such as spider mites or aphids, which disrupt chlorophyll production and photosynthesis.

Wilting in Lantana achyranthifolia can result from water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, leading to root damage and impaired water uptake, which may cause leaf drop and plant decline.

Leaf spots on Lantana achyranthifolia are typically caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in necrotic lesions that can reduce photosynthetic efficiency and lead to premature leaf drop.

Rotting in Lantana achyranthifolia is often caused by fungal pathogens or bacterial infections, particularly in moist conditions, leading to soft, discolored tissues and potential plant death if not addressed.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Cats are also susceptible to hepatotoxicity from Lantana achyranthifolia. The plant's toxic compounds can cause severe liver damage, leading to acute liver failure and potentially fatal outcomes.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting lethargy jaundice anorexia abdominal pain
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves berries
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. Seek veterinary care immediately if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Lantana achyranthifolia can lead to hepatotoxicity, resulting in liver damage and failure. The toxic compounds are metabolized in the liver, causing oxidative stress and cellular damage.

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

if eaten

Keep dogs away from the plant. Contact a veterinarian immediately if ingestion is suspected.
Humans
Toxic

Lantana achyranthifolia contains hepatotoxic pentacyclic triterpenoids that can cause severe liver damage upon ingestion. The toxic compounds interfere with liver function, leading to progressive liver failure.

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

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of any part of the plant. Seek immediate medical attention if accidental 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 achyranthifolia toxic to pets?

A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested, causing gastrointestinal upset.

Q: How often should I water Lantana achyranthifolia?

A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. It is drought-tolerant once established.

Q: Does Lantana achyranthifolia attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.

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

Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!

Google Play App Store
Share This Plant

Related Plants

Blue Vervain
View
Common Vervain
View
Western vervain, Wild verbena
View
Hairy Lantana
View