Species lantana Guide

lantana

Lantana camara 'Ballucor' LITTLE LUCKY ORANGE

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Stem Propagation,Layering Propagation,Division,Grafting Propagation,Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

10 - 11

Flowers:

Yellow and orange Flowers

Sun:

Full sun

Fruits:

red,yellow,orange,tan Fruits Ready In Summer

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,yellow,orange,tan

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Poisonous To Pets:

Yes

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

The lantana plants should be watered frequently throughout the warmer months, and less frequently during the cooler months. During the hotter summer days, the plant will need approximately 1 inch of water each week. It is best to water the lantana plant deeply, but less often (about every other day) rather than a shallow amount of water more often. In the cooler months or when temperatures drop below 75 degrees Fahrenheit, watering should be reduced to once every 2 weeks and only when the soil is dry. Make sure to water the lantana plant at the base and not on the leaves to prevent diseases. The soil should be kept evenly moist but not overly saturated. During frosty weather, do not water the plant at all.

sunlight

Lantana (Lantana camara 'Ballucor' Little Lucky Orange) plants love full sun, enjoying a minimum of 6-8 hours per day when grown outdoors. Planting in a spot that receives direct sunlight for most of the day will yield the best results. Keep in mind that lantana tends to be hardier in full sun, and can tolerate some light spotty shade. However, too much shade can result in weakened stems, reduced flowering, and other health issues. Although lantana can tolerate occasional temperature extremes, keeping it in a spot that is sheltered from cold air and strong winds will also help with overall plant health.

pruning

Pruning lantana (Lantana camara 'Ballucor' Little Lucky Orange) helps to maintain the desired size and shape, encourage denser growth, and maximize blooming potential. Pruning should be done in late spring or early summer, just after the plant has finished blooming. Begin by removing any dead, dying, or damaged twigs or branches. Next, snip off shoot tips that are overcrowding the plant and overdue for a trim. Finally, lightly prune adjacent branches that are crossing each other or growing too close together. This helps to maximize air flow within the plant and will ensure that the lantana maintains a full and healthy appearance.

FAQ

Is Lantana a perennial plant?

Yes, Lantana is a perennial plant. It grows to be between one and three feet tall and is known for its showy and fragrant flowers in colors such as yellow, orange, pink, and white. Lantana is drought-tolerant and typically blooms from mid-summer through the fall. It can tolerate partial shade but prefers full sun for the best blooms and foliage. Because of its hardy nature, Lantana is perfect for landscape borders, patio containers, and hanging baskets.

Could Lantanas be grown as a hedge?

Yes, lantanas can be grown as a hedge. Since lantanas have an mounding habit, as they mature they form a thick, dense hedge which makes them an ideal plant for hedges. Plant lantanas in well-draining, nutrient-rich soil and full sun. In addition, pruning them regularly can help to maintain the shape and the vigor of the hedge. The evergreen foliage also helps provide year-round appeal. Lantanas, however, are considered invasive in some areas, so check with your local Cooperative Extension for the most current information before planting.

Do Lantanas have a strong fragrance?

No, lantanas do not have a strong fragrance. The flowers are usually described as having a light, sweet scent that is most noticeable when smelled up close. Lantanas also attract butterflies and hummingbirds which may be able to appreciate the delicate fragrance more than a human.

Is Lantana considered an invasive species?

Yes, Lantana is considered an invasive species in many parts of the world. It is native to tropical regions in the Americas, but has been introduced to many other areas as an ornamental plant. In these new areas, Lantana can easily spread and out-compete native vegetation, leading to decreased species diversity. In some countries it is even listed as a noxious weed. In addition to impacting native species, the plant produces a toxin that can harm livestock and cause skin irritation in humans. As a result, it is important to take steps to remove and control Lantana to protect native ecosystems.

Could Lantanas be grown indoors?

Yes, lantanas can be grown indoors but they don't do as well as if they were grown outdoors. Artificial lighting will work for growing lantanas indoors but it should be kept in bright light for at least 4-6 hours each day for the best results. Also, be sure to keep the plants in a warm room and make sure they are properly watered. With a bit of effort, lantanas can be grown indoors and can even produce a few flowers.

Could Lantanas be used in butterfly gardens?

Yes, lantanas can be used in butterfly gardens. Not only do lantanas add a pop of colour to the garden, but they are also an important source of nectar for butterflies and other pollinators. Planting a variety of different lantana cultivars can help provide a steady food source for butterflies throughout the season. Lantanas come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colours, and they require minimal upkeep. Planting a few of these tough, drought-tolerant plants in a sunny location can help create a stunning and beneficial butterfly garden.

Are Lantanas self-seeding plants?

Yes, lantanas are self-seeding plants. This means that when they flower and produce seeds, those seeds can take root and germinate into new plants. Lantanas are quick to reseed, meaning that you can expect an abundance of new seedlings in the spring after a successful flowering season in the summer. It's important to keep in mind, however, that these plants can be quite invasive and need to be kept from spreading too much. Picking off the flowers before they go to seed is the best method of controlling spread.

Could Lantanas be used in container gardens?

Yes, Lantanas can be used in container gardens! With their bright colors and easy-going nature, they are perfect to use as colorful focal points for a container garden. They prefer well-drained soils and need plenty of sunshine, so make sure the pot has good drainage and is exposed to full sun. They can also tolerate short dry spells, as long as the soil remains fairly moist. With their long blooming season and range of colors, they make a great addition to any container garden.