Lantana Growth and Care Guide

Lantana is a standout choice for gardeners seeking vibrant, long-lasting flowers that thrive in a variety of conditions. Their colorful clusters also attract butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds, adding life and movement to any garden space. This Plant Guide covers covers everything you need to know about growing Lantana. We cover planting techniques, soil prep, watering routines, fertilizing, pruning, solutions to common issues, and much more.

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By: Reggie Meehan (12/12/2024) - Last Updated (2/27/2026)

Introduction to Lantana

Lantana is a cherished addition to gardens, valued for its bold, colorful blooms, resilient nature, and ability to thrive in a wide range of growing conditions. Lantana belongs to the Verbenaceae family and includes well-known species such as Lantana camara and Lantana montevidensis. Its long blooming season, often stretching from Late Spring through Fall, makes it one of the most dependable sources of continuous color in hot, sunny landscapes.

Native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas and Africa, it is celebrated for its adaptability and stunning, eye-catching floral displays. Its clusters of flowers come in vibrant shades of red, yellow, orange, pink, purple, and white, bringing dynamic color to landscapes, container gardens, and hanging baskets. While Lantana is versatile and pairs well with other annuals, it’s worth noting that in certain regions like Florida and Texas, it is considered invasive due to its ability to spread aggressively. For this reason, gardeners are encouraged to be mindful of local regulations and to select non-invasive.

Characteristics of Lantana

Lantana is a highly regarded garden plant, celebrated for its vibrant blooms and resilient growth habits. Whether used as ground cover, a border plant, or a potted accent, its versatility is unmatched. This hardy plant thrives in challenging conditions, tolerating drought and poor soil with ease, making it a top choice for low-maintenance gardens. However, gardeners should be mindful of Lantana's toxicity, as ingesting Lantana can be harmful to humans & animals.

Size and Growth Habit

Lantana’s growth habit depends on the variety and growing conditions. It can grow as a shrub, ground cover, or trailing plant, making it a versatile choice for different garden applications. Hardy species of Lantana camara, such as 'Miss Huff' can reach heights of up to 6 feet with a spread of 4 feet. More compact, mounding varieties typically grow 12 inches to 3 feet tall. Trailing types, like Lantana montevidensis, grow to heights of 6 to 8 inches and can extend several feet, making them ideal for ground cover or cascading from hanging baskets.

Due to its rapid growth and dense foliage, Lantana can quickly fill large areas, making it an excellent option for erosion control on slopes or for use as a colorful ground cover. In response to demand for smaller, more compact plants, breeders have developed new varieties that maintain Lantana’s hardy nature while offering a more controlled growth habit. This wide range of sizes and forms has made Lantana a favorite for garden beds, container displays, and landscape designs requiring vibrant, low-maintenance color.

Leaves and Flowers

Lantana’s foliage provides texture and contrast in the garden. The leaves are ovate with a slightly serrated edge and a rough, sandpaper-like texture. Lantana montevidensis has darker green leaves than other Lantana varieties, adding richness to its visual appeal. When crushed, Lantana leaves emit a strong, sage-like aroma that some gardeners find appealing, while others may find it unpleasant. Additionally, the leaves can act as a mild skin irritant for those with sensitive skin, so it’s wise to handle the plant with care.

The plant’s true highlight, however, is its vibrant, multi-colored flowers. Lantana’s flower clusters (umbels) come in a dazzling range of colors, including white, yellow, orange, red, pink, and purple. A unique feature of these blooms is their color-changing nature, with flowers often shifting shades as they age. This dynamic color display lasts from spring to frost, providing long-lasting interest in the garden. The nectar-rich flowers are also highly attractive to hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies, adding life and movement to the garden space.

Is Lantana Annual or Perennial?

Lantana can be annual or perennial depending on the climate and growing conditions. In cooler climates, Lantana is grown as an annual because it cannot survive freezing temperatures. However, in USDA Hardiness Zones 9-11, Lantana thrives as a perennial, often forming large, woody shrubs that persist year-round. 

In certain regions, Lantana exhibits "root hardiness." For example, in Zones 7-8, hardy varieties such as 'Ms. Huff' and 'Irene' can survive as perennials, regrowing each Spring from the root system. In Zone 8b, several Lantana camara varieties may die back to the roots during winter but return as vigorous new plants in Spring.

Best Varieties of Lantana

When it comes to Lantana, choosing the right variety makes all the difference—there are countless selections available, but the best varieties are those that deliver continuous flowering, strong branching, and dependable heat and drought tolerance. These varieties do all that & more, holding their shape and color from early Summer through Fall.

Bandana® Series

Miss Huff Lantana is a hardy perennial known for its striking blend of orange, pink, and yellow flowers. Renowned for its ability to withstand challenging conditions, this variety thrives in USDA Zones 7-11. It’s also deer-resistant and drought-tolerant, making it a low-maintenance choice for home gardens. Gardeners in Zone 7 will appreciate its "root-hardy" nature, allowing it to regrow from the roots after winter dormancy. Note that Irene Lantana offers similar hardiness and adaptability but is less widely grown.

Trailing / Lantana montevidensis

Gardeners looking for cascading growth and elegant color will love Trailing Lavender and Trailing White Lantana. These varieties belong to Lantana montevidensis, a trailing species known for its sprawling, cascading habit. Ideal for hanging baskets, raised planters, and slopes, they create a flowing, spill-over effect that adds dimension to any landscape. Their continuous blooms of soft purple or white flowers attract pollinators and add charm to garden designs.

Honorable Mentions

How to Grow and Care for Lantana

Planting Lantana

Plant Lantana in the Spring after the last frost or, if it’s a perennial in your zone, in the Fall to give the roots time to establish before Winter. The foliage is susceptible to frost damage and will die back if exposed too early. While Lantana can recover from a light frost, it can take up to a month to look its best again, so it’s crucial to monitor the weather forecast before planting annual Lantana. Select a sunny location with plenty of airflow to prevent disease and encourage strong growth. Space plants 12 to 24 inches apart, depending on the variety, to allow for proper airflow and room to spread. After planting, water deeply to help the roots settle into the soil, promoting healthy, vigorous growth.

Sunlight Requirements

Lantana thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. Full sun exposure promotes more vibrant blooms and stronger growth, making Lantana an excellent choice for open garden beds, sunny borders, and container plantings. Lantana can tolerate partial shade in hotter climates, though it typically results in fewer flowers being produced in shaded areas.

Soil Requirements

Lantana prefers well-draining soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. It grows well in sandy, loamy, or rocky soils and can even adapt to clay, provided the drainage is sufficient. If you have heavy clay soil, amend it with compost or a soil conditioner to improve texture and drainage. Good drainage is essential to the success of Lantana.

Watering Needs

For annual and container-grown Lantana, frequent watering is necessary, particularly in hot weather, as container soil dries out more quickly than garden beds. Once established, Lantana is highly drought-tolerant, only requiring water during prolonged dry spells. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Lantana is forgiving if it becomes too dry. If the leaves and flowers begin to wilt, a thorough watering followed by a second watering can restore the plant without causing significant yellowing or foliage loss.

Fertilizer Needs

Lantana thrives in low-nutrient soils and rarely requires fertilization. Over-fertilizing can promote excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers. You can (if you want) apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early Spring to support growth, but avoid any more than that, as frequent feedings can reduce blooming. Container-grown Lantana may benefit from occasional feeding due to the limited nutrients available in potting soil.

Pruning and Deadheading

For perennial Lantana in Zones 7 to 9, prune the plant back to the ground in late Winter or early Spring to remove dead growth and encourage fresh new shoots. During the growing season, Lantana is self-cleaning, so deadheading is not required. However, pruning leggy branches periodically can promote better branching and increased flowering.

Overwintering

Lantana is a perennial evergreen in USDA Hardiness Zones 10 to 11. In Zones 7 to 9, hardy varieties of Lantana act as perennials, although they may die back to the ground and regrow in Spring. Some varieties are considered "tender perennials" in Zones 8a and 8b. For frost-prone areas, apply a heavy layer of mulch around the base of Lantana plants to insulate the roots from freezing temperatures. For container-grown Lantana, bring the pots indoors before frost arrives. Store them in a bright, frost-free location and water sparingly during the winter months to prevent root rot.

Common Pests

Lantana is largely pest-resistant. However, late-season infestations of whiteflies can occur. Whiteflies can be managed if caught early. Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to target adult whiteflies, but note that several applications may be required to eliminate newly hatched eggs. Consistent monitoring and timely intervention are key to keeping whitefly populations under control.

Common Diseases

1. Root Rot
   Root rot is the most common disease affecting Lantana, typically caused by poorly draining soil or overwatering. This condition leads to decaying roots and stunted growth. To prevent root rot, plant Lantana in well-draining soil and avoid excessive watering. Consistently monitor moisture levels, especially during rainy seasons, and ensure that containers have proper drainage holes.
2. Powdery Mildew
   Powdery mildew appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves and stems of Lantana. It thrives in humid conditions or areas with limited airflow. To reduce the risk, improve air circulation around plants by spacing them properly, and avoid overhead and evening watering, as excess moisture on leaves encourages the development of mildew.
3. Leaf Spot
   Leaf spot presents as discolored, dark, or brown spots on Lantana foliage. This disease is often caused by fungal pathogens in wet or overcrowded conditions. Control leaf spot by promptly removing affected foliage, maintaining clean garden conditions, and improving air circulation. Proper spacing and watering at the base of the plant help prevent its spread.

Common Mistakes

1. Planting in Shaded Areas
   One of the most common mistakes with Lantana care is planting it in shaded areas. Lantana thrives in full sun and needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Planting in shade results in fewer blooms and leggy, stretched growth. To avoid this mistake, choose a location with ample sun exposure.
2. Overwatering
   Overwatering Lantana is a frequent mistake, especially for new gardeners unfamiliar with its drought-tolerant nature. Lantana performs best when allowed to dry out between waterings. Waterlogged soil increases the risk of root rot. To avoid this mistake, water only when the top inch of soil is dry, and ensure well-draining soil is used.
3. Planting in Dense, Heavy Clay Soil
   Lantana does not thrive in compacted or heavy clay soil, as poor drainage can lead to root rot. Without proper drainage, roots become waterlogged, resulting in plant decline. To avoid this issue, amend heavy soils with compost or coarse sand to improve drainage, or consider planting in raised beds or containers with well-draining potting mix.

Common Misconceptions

There are not many misconceptions relating to Lantana with the exception that gardeners new to Lantana believe that one size fits all. Lantana comes in a wide range of sizes, shapes, and hardiness levels. Some varieties grow as large, sprawling shrubs, while others remain compact or trail gracefully from containers. Gardeners should always check plant tags or variety descriptions to ensure they’re selecting the right Lantana for their specific garden needs. Choosing the correct variety ensures better performance, proper spacing, and the desired look in the landscape.

Using Lantana in the Garden

Lantana’s versatility makes it an invaluable addition to a variety of garden designs and landscape styles. Its vibrant blooms, spreading growth habit, and ability to attract pollinators make it an essential choice for garden beds, containers, and wildlife-friendly landscapes. Here are the top ways to incorporate Lantana into your garden design.

Ground Cover & Borders

Lantana’s dense, spreading habit makes it one of my favorite solutions for covering large beds and sunny slopes where we need both beauty and function. Once it gets established, it forms a thick mat of foliage that hugs the ground and helps stabilize soil, which is especially helpful on banks that tend to wash after heavy Summer storms. The blooms rise just above that foliage layer in constant waves of color, so you are not just getting coverage, you are getting a season-long show. Varieties like ‘New Gold’ are especially strong performers for borders and edging, creating a bright, defined ribbon of color along pathways, driveways, and the front of garden beds.

As the plants grow and spread, they quietly knit together, filling open pockets and eliminating that patchy look that so many groundcovers struggle with early on. By mid-season, what started as individual plants becomes a unified sweep of color that looks intentional and full. I often recommend Lantana to customers who want something low maintenance but still bold and impactful, because once it is rooted in, it handles heat, drought, and neglect far better than most flowering groundcovers. If you have a big sunny space that feels bare or hard to manage, Lantana is one of the easiest ways to turn it into a vibrant, cohesive planting.

Hanging Baskets and Containers

Trailing varieties like Lantana montevidensis, often called Trailing Purple or Trailing White Lantana, are some of my favorite choices for hanging baskets and elevated containers. Instead of growing upright, their stems spill and weave downward, creating a steady waterfall of color that only gets better as the season progresses. When they are in full stride, the blooms stack on top of each other so heavily that you can barely see the foliage underneath. On patios, balconies, and decks, that cascading habit adds motion and softness, especially when a breeze moves through the flowers.

Lantana’s natural drought tolerance makes it exceptionally well suited for containers, particularly in full sun where pots tend to dry out quickly. It handles heat reflecting off concrete and brick without flinching, which is something many flowering plants simply cannot do. I love pairing trailing Lantana with upright salvias or ornamental grasses to create strong contrast in height and texture, giving you that thriller and spiller balance in one container. Once established, it becomes one of the most self-sufficient plants you can grow in a pot, rewarding you with nonstop color while demanding very little attention in return.

Wildlife-Friendly Gardens

Lantana’s bright, nectar-rich flowers make it one of the hardest-working plants in a pollinator garden. From the moment it begins blooming in Late Spring until the first frost shuts it down, it stays covered in clusters of color that bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds simply cannot resist. I have watched swallowtails hover over it for minutes at a time, moving from bloom to bloom without ever leaving the plant. When customers ask me for something that will truly support wildlife and still look bold and vibrant, Lantana is always at the top of my list.

When planted alongside other pollinator favorites like zinnias, salvias, and milkweed, it becomes part of a layered feeding system that keeps activity constant in the garden. The continuous flowering cycle ensures there is always fresh nectar available, even when other plants are between bloom flushes. That reliability is what makes it so valuable from an ecological standpoint. It is not just decorative color. It is a consistent food source that helps sustain beneficial insects and hummingbirds through the hottest parts of the growing season. In a well-designed pollinator garden, Lantana often becomes the anchor plant that keeps everything buzzing.

Lantana Is a True Game-Changer

Looking to grow Lantana in your garden? Here at Garden Delivery, we provide the highest quality Lantana plants, celebrated for their vivid blooms and unmatched heat tolerance. Our selections are sourced from trusted growers and bred for long-lasting performance in even the sunniest, driest conditions. We’re proud to offer detailed information and performance rankings to help you choose the best variety for your needs. Add this colorful, pollinator-friendly favorite to your garden today and enjoy non-stop blooms from Spring through Fall!