Lantana Lantana 'New Gold' (3.5 inch pot) MSRP: Now: $4.61 Choose Options Lantana Lantana 'New Gold' (3.5 inch pot) Lantana x 'New Gold' (3.5-inch pot)Common Name: New Gold Lantana Height: 12-18 Inches Spread: 1-3 Feet Hardiness Zone: 7-9 Full Sun Semi-hardy in Zone 7. Golden Yellow Flowers - Late Spring thru... MSRP: Now: $4.61 Choose Options Compare Selected What Is Lantana? Lantana is a genus of about 150 species of flowering plants in the verbena family, Verbenaceae. They are native to tropical regions of the Americas and Africa but have been introduced to many other parts of the world, where they can become invasive. Lantanas are typically shrubs or perennial herbs that grow to 0.5–2 m (1.6–6.6 ft) tall. They have opposite, simple leaves with a rough texture. The flowers are small and tubular, and they are produced in clusters called umbels. Lantana flowers come in a wide variety of colors, including red, orange, yellow, purple, and pink. They often change color as they mature, so a single umbel can have multiple colors. Lantana is a popular garden plant because of its showy flowers and long blooming season. However, it is important to be aware that lantana can be toxic to humans and animals, and all parts of the plant should be considered poisonous. The berries are especially toxic, and they can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and even death if ingested. Lantana is also considered an invasive species in many parts of the world. It can quickly spread and form dense thickets that crowd out native plants. If you are considering planting lantana in your garden, it is important to check with your local extension office to make sure that it is not a problem in your area. How Do I Plant Lantana? Planting lantana is quite easy, but timing and location are key! Here's how to get those vibrant blooms going: Timing: Wait for warmer weather: Since lantana thrives in warmth, it's best to plant them after the last frost has passed. In Acworth, Georgia, that's typically around late March to early April. You can start seeds indoors even earlier (about 6-8 weeks before your frost-free date). Location: Sun is crucial: Choose a sunny spot that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Lantana loves basking in the sun! Well-draining soil is essential: Lantana hates soggy feet. Plant them in well-draining soil to prevent root rot. If your soil is heavy clay, amend it with compost or sand to improve drainage. Planting process: Prepare the hole: Dig a hole slightly wider and deeper than the root ball of your lantana plant. Loosen the roots: If your plant is in a container, gently tease out the roots to break up any circling patterns. This helps them establish better in the ground. Position the plant: Place the lantana in the hole with the top of the root ball level with the surrounding soil. Backfill and water: Fill in the hole with soil, tamp it down gently to remove air pockets, and water deeply. Keep the soil consistently moist (but not soggy) until the plant is established. Additional tips: Spacing: Depending on the variety, space your lantana plants 12 inches to 6 feet apart. Dwarf varieties need less space, while taller ones need more room to spread. Fertilizing: Lantana doesn't need heavy feeding. A light application of balanced fertilizer at planting time and once a month during the growing season is sufficient. Deadheading: To encourage continuous blooming, deadhead spent flowers by pinching off the faded blooms. This also promotes bushier growth. With proper care and attention, your lantana should reward you with a long season of dazzling blooms! What Are the Different Varieties of Lantana? The vibrant world of lantana offers a dazzling array of varieties, each with its unique charm. Here's a glimpse into some of the most popular types: By Growth Habit: Bushy: Lantana camara is the classic choice, reaching 3-6 feet tall and wide with a mounding form. Ideal for borders, hedges, and containers. Trailing: Lantana montevidensis cascades gracefully with long, flowing stems ideal for hanging baskets, spilling over walls, or softening edges. Dwarf: Compact and charming, these lantanas like 'Landmark' and 'Bandana' stay under 2 feet tall, perfect for edging, small spaces, or rock gardens. By Flower Color: Solid Colors: Red, orange, yellow, pink, purple, and white are just some of the stunning single-color options, like the fiery 'Red Hot' or the sunny 'Lemon Drop'. Bicolor: These lantanas boast mesmerizing combinations like 'Confetti' with its pink and yellow blend or 'Sunrise' with its orange and rose fusion. Multicolor: Watch the blooms change and mesmerize with varieties like 'Lavender Swirl' or 'Patriot Mix', offering a kaleidoscope of shades in each cluster. Bonus: Native Lantana: Lantana horrida or urticoides is a North American native with spiky yellow flowers turning orange-red, attracting butterflies and hummingbirds. Sterile Varieties: Consider sterile options like 'New Gold' or 'Weeping Lavender' if you're concerned about lantana's invasiveness in some regions. Remember, this is just a starting point! Explore local nurseries and online resources to discover even more lantana varieties and find the perfect fit for your garden or containers. Happy planting! How Do I Care for Lantana in My Garden? Caring for your lantana in the garden is fairly straightforward, but knowing their basic needs and preferences will ensure those vibrant blooms keep shining! Here's a breakdown of essential care tips: Sun and Soil: Sun worshipper: Lantana craves at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. This fuels healthy growth and continuous blooms. Drainage champion: Well-draining soil is crucial to avoid root rot. Amend clay soils with compost or sand for better drainage. Watering: Newborns need constant care: Water newly planted lantana regularly to ensure strong root development. Established adults are drought-tolerant: Once established, lantanas can handle dry spells, but aim for about an inch of water per week (through rain or irrigation) for optimal blooming. Container lantanas need more frequent watering: Check the soil daily and water when the top inch feels dry. Feeding: Light eater: Lantana doesn't require heavy feeding. A light application of balanced fertilizer at planting time and once a month during the growing season is sufficient. Overfeeding can be counterproductive: Too much fertilizer can hinder blooming, so stick to moderate feedings. Pruning and Maintenance: Deadheading for continuous blooms: Pinch off spent flowers regularly to encourage new blooms and maintain a bushier shape. Pruning for size and shape: Prune lightly after flowering to control size and promote branching. In warmer climates, prune back more heavily in late winter or early spring. Winter care: In mild climates, lantana can stay outdoors with minimal protection. In colder regions, consider bringing container lantanas indoors or heavily mulching planted lantanas before winter. Bonus Tips: Mulch for moisture retention and weed control: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of your lantana to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Attract pollinators: Lantana's colorful blooms attract butterflies, hummingbirds, and other beneficial insects. Beware of pests and diseases: Lantana is generally pest-resistant, but watch out for aphids, whiteflies, and fungal diseases in humid conditions. Use organic controls whenever possible. With these tips in mind, your lantana should thrive in your garden and reward you with a spectacular display of color all season long! Remember, observation and adapting to your specific climate and soil conditions are key to fine-tuning your lantana care routine. Happy gardening! Do Lantana Plants Attract Pollinators? Lantana plants are absolute magnets for pollinators, making them a fantastic addition to any garden looking to support these vital creatures. Here's why they're so beloved: A feast for the senses: Lantana's vibrant blooms: come in a dazzling array of colors like red, orange, yellow, purple, and pink, often with multiple hues in a single cluster. This visual feast attracts pollinators from afar. Sweet nectar: abundantly produced by the numerous tiny flowers within each cluster, provides a delicious and nutritious reward for pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Aromatic appeal: many lantana varieties boast a pleasant fragrance, further enticing pollinators to investigate and stay for a snack. The perfect landing pad: Flat, open flower clusters: offer a stable and spacious platform for pollinators to perch and access the nectar easily. Continuous blooming: from late spring to frost, ensures a steady supply of food for pollinators throughout the season. Multiple varieties: with different heights and flower shapes, cater to a wider range of pollinator species. Bonus benefits: Lantana's pollen: is often sticky, which helps in the transfer of pollen between flowers, aiding in successful pollination. The plant: provides shelter and habitat for other beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings, further promoting a healthy ecosystem in your garden. So, by planting lantana, you're not just adding a touch of vibrant color to your garden, you're also creating a welcoming haven for pollinators, playing a crucial role in maintaining a healthy and thriving ecosystem. Here are some additional tips for attracting even more pollinators with lantana: Plant a variety of lantana: with different colors, heights, and bloom times to cater to a wider range of pollinators. Group your lantana plants together: This creates a larger "buffet" of nectar and pollen, making it even more irresistible to pollinators. Combine lantana with other pollinator-friendly plants: like lavender, salvia, and zinnias, for a garden buzzing with life. Avoid using pesticides: These can harm pollinators as well as beneficial insects. Opt for organic methods of pest control whenever possible. With a little planning and care, you can turn your garden into a pollinator paradise with the help of Lantana! Can I Use Lantana in Floral Arrangements? Lantana can be a fantastic addition to floral arrangements, adding vibrant pops of color, interesting textures, and even a delightful fragrance. Here's why you should consider incorporating lantana into your next floral masterpiece: Visual Versatility: A rainbow of colors: Lantana boasts a stunning array of hues, from fiery reds and oranges to sunny yellows and cool purples. You can choose single-color blooms for a bold statement or mix and match to create vibrant, eye-catching arrangements. Multicolored magic: Some lantana varieties even feature blooms that change color as they mature, adding a dynamic element to your arrangements. Textural intrigue: Lantana flowers come in various shapes and sizes, from small clusters to larger, open blooms. You can combine them with other flowers and foliage with contrasting textures for a visually rich arrangement. Long-lasting Beauty: Cut and come again: Lantana stems readily produce new flowers after cutting, so your arrangement will stay fresh and vibrant for days. Heat-tolerant: Lantana thrives in warm weather, making it a perfect choice for summer bouquets and centerpieces. Bonus Benefits: Fragrant delight: Many lantana varieties have a pleasant, honey-like fragrance that can add an extra layer of sensory enjoyment to your arrangement. Pollinator friendly: Even when cut, lantana flowers can still attract butterflies and hummingbirds, adding a touch of life to your arrangement. Tips for Using Lantana in Arrangements: Harvest lantana flowers in the morning: when they are at their peak freshness. Cut stems at an angle: to maximize water uptake. Remove any foliage that will be submerged in water: to prevent bacterial growth. Condition lantana stems in warm water: for a few hours before arranging. Pair lantana with complementary flowers: like zinnias, daisies, or sunflowers for a vibrant mix, or with softer blooms like hydrangeas and roses for a more delicate look. Use lantana as a filler or focal point: depending on the size and variety you choose. With a little creativity, you can use lantana to create stunning and unique floral arrangements that will brighten any space. So, next time you're at the florist or the garden center, don't hesitate to pick up some lantana! Here are some additional ideas for using lantana in floral arrangements: Create a tropical-inspired arrangement with lantana, orchids, and bird-of-paradise flowers. Use lantana to add a splash of color to a rustic arrangement with sunflowers, daisies, and mason jars. Make a patriotic bouquet for Memorial Day or the Fourth of July with red, white, and blue lantana blooms. Design a cheerful summer centerpiece with lantana, yellow gerbera daisies, and green ferns. No matter your style or occasion, there's a way to incorporate lantana into your floral arrangements and add a touch of vibrant beauty to your home. Is Lantana Invasive? Whether lantana is invasive depends on where you are located and the specific variety you're considering. It's a complex situation with no simple answer. Lantana can be invasive in many parts of the world, including: Most of the southern United States: Florida, Georgia, Texas, California, and others. Tropical and subtropical regions: Central and South America, Africa, Asia, and Australia. Here's why it's considered invasive: Fast-growing and adaptable: Lantana readily sprouts from seeds and spreads quickly, forming dense thickets that crowd out native plants. Toxic to some animals: The berries and other parts of the plant can be poisonous to humans and pets, posing a health risk. Disrupts ecosystems: Lantana's dominance can alter soil composition, reduce biodiversity, and affect wildlife habitat. However, the invasiveness varies depending on: Lantana variety: Some varieties, like Lantana montevidensis, are less invasive than others, like Lantana camara. Local climate and environment: In colder regions, lantana may not survive winters, limiting its spread. It's important to be aware of the potential risks before planting lantana in your garden. Here are some things you can do: Check with your local authorities or extension office: They can provide information about invasive species in your area and recommend native alternatives. Choose sterile varieties: These varieties don't produce seeds, reducing the risk of spread. Maintain your lantana plants: Regular pruning and deadheading can prevent seed production and control their growth. Don't dump lantana trimmings or compost: This can help prevent the spread to other areas. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to plant lantana is yours. But by being informed about its potential risks and taking responsible steps, you can help protect your local ecosystem and native plants. When Is The Best Time To Divide Lantana? The best time to divide lantana depends on your climate, but in general, you have two main options: Spring: This is ideal in mild climates where winters are not too harsh. The cooler temperatures and increased moisture after the first frost provide ideal conditions for lantana to establish new roots before the heat of summer hits. Aim for early to mid-spring before new growth flushes appear. Fall: This is preferred in warmer climates with long growing seasons. Divide lantana at least 4-6 weeks before the first frost to give the plant enough time to establish itself before winter dormancy. Here's a breakdown of the pros and cons of each season: Spring: Pros: Cooler temperatures reduce transplant shock. Increased soil moisture aids root development. Can enjoy blooming before dividing (if already established). Cons: May disrupt blooming if divided too early. Hot summer weather can stress newly divided plants. Fall: Pros: Avoids the stress of summer heat. Gives plants time to establish before winter. May promote bushier growth due to reduced flowering energy. Cons: Less time for root development before frost. May miss out on some late-season blooms. Additional factors to consider: Plant size and maturity: Large, mature plants are more challenging to divide and may take longer to recover. Local weather conditions: If your climate is unpredictable, consult your local gardening resources for specific timing recommendations. Variety of lantana: Some varieties may be more sensitive to division than others. No matter when you choose to divide, ensure you follow proper techniques like using sharp tools, dividing the root ball carefully, and planting the transplants in well-draining soil.
Lantana Lantana 'New Gold' (3.5 inch pot) Lantana x 'New Gold' (3.5-inch pot)Common Name: New Gold Lantana Height: 12-18 Inches Spread: 1-3 Feet Hardiness Zone: 7-9 Full Sun Semi-hardy in Zone 7. Golden Yellow Flowers - Late Spring thru... MSRP: Now: $4.61 Choose Options Compare Selected What Is Lantana? Lantana is a genus of about 150 species of flowering plants in the verbena family, Verbenaceae. They are native to tropical regions of the Americas and Africa but have been introduced to many other parts of the world, where they can become invasive. Lantanas are typically shrubs or perennial herbs that grow to 0.5–2 m (1.6–6.6 ft) tall. They have opposite, simple leaves with a rough texture. The flowers are small and tubular, and they are produced in clusters called umbels. Lantana flowers come in a wide variety of colors, including red, orange, yellow, purple, and pink. They often change color as they mature, so a single umbel can have multiple colors. Lantana is a popular garden plant because of its showy flowers and long blooming season. However, it is important to be aware that lantana can be toxic to humans and animals, and all parts of the plant should be considered poisonous. The berries are especially toxic, and they can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and even death if ingested. Lantana is also considered an invasive species in many parts of the world. It can quickly spread and form dense thickets that crowd out native plants. If you are considering planting lantana in your garden, it is important to check with your local extension office to make sure that it is not a problem in your area. How Do I Plant Lantana? Planting lantana is quite easy, but timing and location are key! Here's how to get those vibrant blooms going: Timing: Wait for warmer weather: Since lantana thrives in warmth, it's best to plant them after the last frost has passed. In Acworth, Georgia, that's typically around late March to early April. You can start seeds indoors even earlier (about 6-8 weeks before your frost-free date). Location: Sun is crucial: Choose a sunny spot that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Lantana loves basking in the sun! Well-draining soil is essential: Lantana hates soggy feet. Plant them in well-draining soil to prevent root rot. If your soil is heavy clay, amend it with compost or sand to improve drainage. Planting process: Prepare the hole: Dig a hole slightly wider and deeper than the root ball of your lantana plant. Loosen the roots: If your plant is in a container, gently tease out the roots to break up any circling patterns. This helps them establish better in the ground. Position the plant: Place the lantana in the hole with the top of the root ball level with the surrounding soil. Backfill and water: Fill in the hole with soil, tamp it down gently to remove air pockets, and water deeply. Keep the soil consistently moist (but not soggy) until the plant is established. Additional tips: Spacing: Depending on the variety, space your lantana plants 12 inches to 6 feet apart. Dwarf varieties need less space, while taller ones need more room to spread. Fertilizing: Lantana doesn't need heavy feeding. A light application of balanced fertilizer at planting time and once a month during the growing season is sufficient. Deadheading: To encourage continuous blooming, deadhead spent flowers by pinching off the faded blooms. This also promotes bushier growth. With proper care and attention, your lantana should reward you with a long season of dazzling blooms! What Are the Different Varieties of Lantana? The vibrant world of lantana offers a dazzling array of varieties, each with its unique charm. Here's a glimpse into some of the most popular types: By Growth Habit: Bushy: Lantana camara is the classic choice, reaching 3-6 feet tall and wide with a mounding form. Ideal for borders, hedges, and containers. Trailing: Lantana montevidensis cascades gracefully with long, flowing stems ideal for hanging baskets, spilling over walls, or softening edges. Dwarf: Compact and charming, these lantanas like 'Landmark' and 'Bandana' stay under 2 feet tall, perfect for edging, small spaces, or rock gardens. By Flower Color: Solid Colors: Red, orange, yellow, pink, purple, and white are just some of the stunning single-color options, like the fiery 'Red Hot' or the sunny 'Lemon Drop'. Bicolor: These lantanas boast mesmerizing combinations like 'Confetti' with its pink and yellow blend or 'Sunrise' with its orange and rose fusion. Multicolor: Watch the blooms change and mesmerize with varieties like 'Lavender Swirl' or 'Patriot Mix', offering a kaleidoscope of shades in each cluster. Bonus: Native Lantana: Lantana horrida or urticoides is a North American native with spiky yellow flowers turning orange-red, attracting butterflies and hummingbirds. Sterile Varieties: Consider sterile options like 'New Gold' or 'Weeping Lavender' if you're concerned about lantana's invasiveness in some regions. Remember, this is just a starting point! Explore local nurseries and online resources to discover even more lantana varieties and find the perfect fit for your garden or containers. Happy planting! How Do I Care for Lantana in My Garden? Caring for your lantana in the garden is fairly straightforward, but knowing their basic needs and preferences will ensure those vibrant blooms keep shining! Here's a breakdown of essential care tips: Sun and Soil: Sun worshipper: Lantana craves at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. This fuels healthy growth and continuous blooms. Drainage champion: Well-draining soil is crucial to avoid root rot. Amend clay soils with compost or sand for better drainage. Watering: Newborns need constant care: Water newly planted lantana regularly to ensure strong root development. Established adults are drought-tolerant: Once established, lantanas can handle dry spells, but aim for about an inch of water per week (through rain or irrigation) for optimal blooming. Container lantanas need more frequent watering: Check the soil daily and water when the top inch feels dry. Feeding: Light eater: Lantana doesn't require heavy feeding. A light application of balanced fertilizer at planting time and once a month during the growing season is sufficient. Overfeeding can be counterproductive: Too much fertilizer can hinder blooming, so stick to moderate feedings. Pruning and Maintenance: Deadheading for continuous blooms: Pinch off spent flowers regularly to encourage new blooms and maintain a bushier shape. Pruning for size and shape: Prune lightly after flowering to control size and promote branching. In warmer climates, prune back more heavily in late winter or early spring. Winter care: In mild climates, lantana can stay outdoors with minimal protection. In colder regions, consider bringing container lantanas indoors or heavily mulching planted lantanas before winter. Bonus Tips: Mulch for moisture retention and weed control: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of your lantana to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Attract pollinators: Lantana's colorful blooms attract butterflies, hummingbirds, and other beneficial insects. Beware of pests and diseases: Lantana is generally pest-resistant, but watch out for aphids, whiteflies, and fungal diseases in humid conditions. Use organic controls whenever possible. With these tips in mind, your lantana should thrive in your garden and reward you with a spectacular display of color all season long! Remember, observation and adapting to your specific climate and soil conditions are key to fine-tuning your lantana care routine. Happy gardening! Do Lantana Plants Attract Pollinators? Lantana plants are absolute magnets for pollinators, making them a fantastic addition to any garden looking to support these vital creatures. Here's why they're so beloved: A feast for the senses: Lantana's vibrant blooms: come in a dazzling array of colors like red, orange, yellow, purple, and pink, often with multiple hues in a single cluster. This visual feast attracts pollinators from afar. Sweet nectar: abundantly produced by the numerous tiny flowers within each cluster, provides a delicious and nutritious reward for pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Aromatic appeal: many lantana varieties boast a pleasant fragrance, further enticing pollinators to investigate and stay for a snack. The perfect landing pad: Flat, open flower clusters: offer a stable and spacious platform for pollinators to perch and access the nectar easily. Continuous blooming: from late spring to frost, ensures a steady supply of food for pollinators throughout the season. Multiple varieties: with different heights and flower shapes, cater to a wider range of pollinator species. Bonus benefits: Lantana's pollen: is often sticky, which helps in the transfer of pollen between flowers, aiding in successful pollination. The plant: provides shelter and habitat for other beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings, further promoting a healthy ecosystem in your garden. So, by planting lantana, you're not just adding a touch of vibrant color to your garden, you're also creating a welcoming haven for pollinators, playing a crucial role in maintaining a healthy and thriving ecosystem. Here are some additional tips for attracting even more pollinators with lantana: Plant a variety of lantana: with different colors, heights, and bloom times to cater to a wider range of pollinators. Group your lantana plants together: This creates a larger "buffet" of nectar and pollen, making it even more irresistible to pollinators. Combine lantana with other pollinator-friendly plants: like lavender, salvia, and zinnias, for a garden buzzing with life. Avoid using pesticides: These can harm pollinators as well as beneficial insects. Opt for organic methods of pest control whenever possible. With a little planning and care, you can turn your garden into a pollinator paradise with the help of Lantana! Can I Use Lantana in Floral Arrangements? Lantana can be a fantastic addition to floral arrangements, adding vibrant pops of color, interesting textures, and even a delightful fragrance. Here's why you should consider incorporating lantana into your next floral masterpiece: Visual Versatility: A rainbow of colors: Lantana boasts a stunning array of hues, from fiery reds and oranges to sunny yellows and cool purples. You can choose single-color blooms for a bold statement or mix and match to create vibrant, eye-catching arrangements. Multicolored magic: Some lantana varieties even feature blooms that change color as they mature, adding a dynamic element to your arrangements. Textural intrigue: Lantana flowers come in various shapes and sizes, from small clusters to larger, open blooms. You can combine them with other flowers and foliage with contrasting textures for a visually rich arrangement. Long-lasting Beauty: Cut and come again: Lantana stems readily produce new flowers after cutting, so your arrangement will stay fresh and vibrant for days. Heat-tolerant: Lantana thrives in warm weather, making it a perfect choice for summer bouquets and centerpieces. Bonus Benefits: Fragrant delight: Many lantana varieties have a pleasant, honey-like fragrance that can add an extra layer of sensory enjoyment to your arrangement. Pollinator friendly: Even when cut, lantana flowers can still attract butterflies and hummingbirds, adding a touch of life to your arrangement. Tips for Using Lantana in Arrangements: Harvest lantana flowers in the morning: when they are at their peak freshness. Cut stems at an angle: to maximize water uptake. Remove any foliage that will be submerged in water: to prevent bacterial growth. Condition lantana stems in warm water: for a few hours before arranging. Pair lantana with complementary flowers: like zinnias, daisies, or sunflowers for a vibrant mix, or with softer blooms like hydrangeas and roses for a more delicate look. Use lantana as a filler or focal point: depending on the size and variety you choose. With a little creativity, you can use lantana to create stunning and unique floral arrangements that will brighten any space. So, next time you're at the florist or the garden center, don't hesitate to pick up some lantana! Here are some additional ideas for using lantana in floral arrangements: Create a tropical-inspired arrangement with lantana, orchids, and bird-of-paradise flowers. Use lantana to add a splash of color to a rustic arrangement with sunflowers, daisies, and mason jars. Make a patriotic bouquet for Memorial Day or the Fourth of July with red, white, and blue lantana blooms. Design a cheerful summer centerpiece with lantana, yellow gerbera daisies, and green ferns. No matter your style or occasion, there's a way to incorporate lantana into your floral arrangements and add a touch of vibrant beauty to your home. Is Lantana Invasive? Whether lantana is invasive depends on where you are located and the specific variety you're considering. It's a complex situation with no simple answer. Lantana can be invasive in many parts of the world, including: Most of the southern United States: Florida, Georgia, Texas, California, and others. Tropical and subtropical regions: Central and South America, Africa, Asia, and Australia. Here's why it's considered invasive: Fast-growing and adaptable: Lantana readily sprouts from seeds and spreads quickly, forming dense thickets that crowd out native plants. Toxic to some animals: The berries and other parts of the plant can be poisonous to humans and pets, posing a health risk. Disrupts ecosystems: Lantana's dominance can alter soil composition, reduce biodiversity, and affect wildlife habitat. However, the invasiveness varies depending on: Lantana variety: Some varieties, like Lantana montevidensis, are less invasive than others, like Lantana camara. Local climate and environment: In colder regions, lantana may not survive winters, limiting its spread. It's important to be aware of the potential risks before planting lantana in your garden. Here are some things you can do: Check with your local authorities or extension office: They can provide information about invasive species in your area and recommend native alternatives. Choose sterile varieties: These varieties don't produce seeds, reducing the risk of spread. Maintain your lantana plants: Regular pruning and deadheading can prevent seed production and control their growth. Don't dump lantana trimmings or compost: This can help prevent the spread to other areas. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to plant lantana is yours. But by being informed about its potential risks and taking responsible steps, you can help protect your local ecosystem and native plants. When Is The Best Time To Divide Lantana? The best time to divide lantana depends on your climate, but in general, you have two main options: Spring: This is ideal in mild climates where winters are not too harsh. The cooler temperatures and increased moisture after the first frost provide ideal conditions for lantana to establish new roots before the heat of summer hits. Aim for early to mid-spring before new growth flushes appear. Fall: This is preferred in warmer climates with long growing seasons. Divide lantana at least 4-6 weeks before the first frost to give the plant enough time to establish itself before winter dormancy. Here's a breakdown of the pros and cons of each season: Spring: Pros: Cooler temperatures reduce transplant shock. Increased soil moisture aids root development. Can enjoy blooming before dividing (if already established). Cons: May disrupt blooming if divided too early. Hot summer weather can stress newly divided plants. Fall: Pros: Avoids the stress of summer heat. Gives plants time to establish before winter. May promote bushier growth due to reduced flowering energy. Cons: Less time for root development before frost. May miss out on some late-season blooms. Additional factors to consider: Plant size and maturity: Large, mature plants are more challenging to divide and may take longer to recover. Local weather conditions: If your climate is unpredictable, consult your local gardening resources for specific timing recommendations. Variety of lantana: Some varieties may be more sensitive to division than others. No matter when you choose to divide, ensure you follow proper techniques like using sharp tools, dividing the root ball carefully, and planting the transplants in well-draining soil.