Choose a Lantana for Aromatic Flower Clusters
The Ham and Eggs Plant for a Stunning Array of Garden Color
Sep 15, 2009
Lantana is a tropical shrub with a multitude of colors ranging from orange, yellow, mauve, white and red and in most cases these colors are found on the one plant and even as a cluster of small flowers on a single stem. The flowers are like tiny trumpets and there can be as many as twenty little trumpets on each flower-head. The flowers often change color as they mature during the season. The leaves are evergreen and when brushed against or crushed exude a strong scent reminiscent of blackcurrant. Lantana is a member of the Verbena family and due to its mix of colors it has the delightful nickname of “Ham & Eggs plant”. They are colorful, evergreen perennial plants.
Where to grow Lantana Plants
Lantana plants are tropical by nature and are also found in Mediterranean gardens. Although not indigenous to Florida they have acclimatized so completely there that they are thought of as being a local plant.
- Lantana plants thrive best in full sun.
- Poor soil conditions will be tolerated, as will drought, once the plant is established. A moist soil is required for the first few weeks after planting.
- Temperatures found in U.S. zone 8 and upwards are ideal.
- Lantanas are salt tolerant so are a good choice for seaside gardens.
- They grow well in hanging baskets and in patio tubs.
- Lantana is an ideal ground cover shrub but because of its rapid growth it is considered an invasive plant in some areas.
- Some varieties of lantana can grow to 6ft. or more so be prepared for some pruning. The smaller varieties bloom best of all.
Pruning Lantana Plants
Lantana is a vigorous shrub and pruning will be necessary both to keep the plant compact and to prevent it from becoming too invasive.
- The best time to prune lantana is in late winter to early spring.
- Cut lantana back to about 12” above the soil to achieve a more compact bush.
- Selective periodic pruning during the growing season will help keep the plant from becoming leggy and invasive.
- Pinching the growing tips will also keep the plant in check.
- If frost is to be expected, zones 7 or below, it is best to prune lantanas in the beginning of winter. When pruning is complete cover the cut stalks with mulch for protection.
- For both winter and spring pruned plants feed the plants in early spring with a general fertilizer.
Lantana Pests and Problems
Lantana plants are robust and have few adversaries. White fly and lace bugs can sometimes be a problem and also they can be seen with a white mildew. Sometimes caterpillars can attack the young fresh growth but all of these problems can be handled easily by spraying with a pesticide and fungicide. The foliage, when crushed, can cause a rash and gloves should be worn when working with lantanas. The unripe berries are toxic and must not be ingested.
Propagating Lantana Plants
Propagation is best done by taking 3” cuttings in late summer to early fall. Dip the semi-ripe cutting in rooting compound and keep the compost faintly moist and warm, plant outdoors in late spring.
Valued for its long and reliable flowering season, with colors similar to the “Red Bird of Paradise” plant, the Lantana, like the Buddleia bush, is highly prized as a means of attracting butterflies to outdoor gardens. The aromatic flower clusters also attract hummingbirds to the garden.
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