Part of the Verbenaceae plant family, you’ll find about 150 different perennial plants within the Lantana genus.
They come from tropical parts of both Africa and the Americas and have been introduced in other warm areas.
Most verbenas that belong to the Lantana genus grow as shrubs, but you will find a few herbaceous perennials in this group, too.
At A Glance: Lantana
Lantana shrubs are famous for their carnival-bright clusters of flowers, each bloom featuring four petals. These gorgeous flowers last for a long time and make a spectacular show in very sunny spots in your garden.
They are also a magnet for pollinators such as butterflies and hummingbirds, ensuring your garden’s health and ecosystem are looked after.
It’s worth noting that the majority of species that fall under the Lantana genus are invasive. You need to be careful where you plant them, as they can quickly take over an area and harm native plants.
Even if you think you might be able to control them by keeping a single plant in a pot, it’s worth mentioning that a single plant can produce 12,000 seeds in a single year!
Lantana Name Origin
The name Lantana comes from Latin, which is also the name for Viburnum lantana. These plants often get confused, as they look similar at first glance.
What Does Lantana Symbolize?
The flowers on a shrub verbena or lantana bush represent an accurate nature and a strong sense of discipline.
A Note On Lantana Toxicity
The majority of plants that fall under this genus are poisonous, so consider safer plant options if you have pets or children visiting your garden regularly.
Lantana Growing Requirements
Hardy in zones 8 through to 11, Lantana plants make great statement plants with their fantastic flowers. They come in many colors, including orange, red, rose, purple, yellow, white, and even a mix of these.
Depending on the species you go for, shrub verbenas vary from 10 inches to 4 feet high.
All plants within the genus need full sunlight, preferably in a sheltered area, especially if you get cold winters. Apart from keeping on top of their vigorous growth rate, these plants are very easy to keep, and only need an average amount of irrigation.
To make your lantana plant look its best, plant it in rich, well-draining soil, with a pH somewhere between 6.5 and 7.5.
