The Lantana plant is an evergreen, tropical shrub that will grow up to eight feet wide and 6-feet high. There are some that may even grow taller if it is provided a quality support to climb on. Its leaves are 2-5 inches in length and 1-2 inches wide with a textured surface and tooth edges.
Rough hairs surround the stems, and the shrub creates a bad smell whenever crushed. A lot of little flowers blossom throughout the year in tropical areas. In cooler regions they just bloom in summer and autumn.
Grow Calendar 2011
In Florida, the plant is quite widespread. It is easy for lantana to adjust to many different soil types. The shrub grows best in sun and part shade with well-drained soil. The shrub can grow back after being wiped out by the frost.
The Lantana shrub can grow quiet swiftly and can be used as container plant or border. Lantana plants can also tolerate salt sprays should you live near a beach. Lantana does not have any trouble with pest or diseases. Its leaves might be toxic to some animals, so avoid letting your pets get near them. Lantana attracts butterflies, bees and some types of birds.
Hybrids can reach to over one hundred species. Species like weeping or trailing lantana works nicely in a hanging basket or as a ground-cover. Beautifully colored flowers are produced by the festival variety of the plant.
It is known as a weed in certain regions like Texas, because of its untamed growth spread. In certain locations, its leaves are used for therapeutic purposes. In Mexico, it is a stomach tonic and in Sinaloa it is a treatment for those who have been bitten by a snake.
Lantana is easily grown by the new gardener in warm climates because of it hardiness. Recommended varieties are New Gold, Weeping Lavender, Texas Flame, and Samantha.
The Lantana Plant Produces Beautiful Colored Flowers That Attract Bees and Butterflies Year-Round Grow Calendar 2011
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