Lantana

Lantana is a genus of about 150 species of flowering plants in the verbenaceae family. It includes ornamental shrubs and groundcovers native to tropical regions of the Americas, Africa, and Asia. The best known species, Lantana camara, is widely cultivated for its bright multicolored inflorescences and has become naturalized and invasive in many warm climates.

Description and ecology: Lantana plants are woody shrubs or spreading subshrubs with opposite, rough leaves that often have an aromatic scent when crushed. The flowers appear in dense, flat-topped clusters and commonly change color as they mature, offering combinations of yellow, orange, pink, and red. After flowering, small berries form, maturing to dark purple or black and attracting birds. The plants are drought-tolerant and thrive in full sun with well-drained soil.

Distribution and invasiveness: While native to tropical Americas, Lantana has been introduced worldwide as an ornamental. In many regions it escapes cultivation and forms dense thickets in disturbed habitats such as roadsides, fields, and woodland edges. Its rapid growth, prolific seeding, and ability to resprout after cutting contribute to its status as an invasive species in several ecosystems, where it can reduce native biodiversity and alter habitat structure.

Cultivation and uses: Lantana is grown for landscaping, borders, hedges, and hanging baskets. It tolerates poor soils and drought but may require pruning to maintain shape. Propagation is by cuttings or seeds; many cultivars exist, including upright and trailing forms with various flower colors.

Toxicity: All parts of lantana contain compounds that can be toxic if ingested by humans or animals, causing gastrointestinal upset and, in some cases, more serious effects. Birds may consume the berries, which aids seed dispersal.

Management: In areas where lantana is invasive, control methods include mechanical removal, repeated cutting, and herbicide treatment, with careful disposal to prevent seed spread.