What Are the Different Types of Lantana Plant

Lantana plants are popular choices for gardens and landscapes due to their vibrant colors and ability to attract butterflies and hummingbirds. These versatile plants are native to tropical regions of the Americas, Africa, and Australia. With over 150 known species, the lantana genus offers a wide variety of options for gardeners to choose from. In this article, we will explore some of the different types of lantana plants and their unique characteristics.

1. Lantana camara

Lantana camara, also known as common lantana or wild sage, is one of the most widely cultivated species in the lantana genus. It is native to Central and South America but has been naturalized in many parts of the world. This species is known for its showy flower clusters that come in a range of colors, including yellow, orange, red, and pink. The flowers attract butterflies and bees, making it a popular choice for butterfly gardens.

2. Lantana montevidensis

Lantana montevidensis, commonly referred to as trailing lantana or creeping lantana, is a low-growing variety with a trailing habit. This species is native to South America and is often used as ground cover or in hanging baskets. The flowers of Lantana montevidensis are typically purple or lavender, although there are cultivars available in white and pink shades as well.

3. Lantana depressa

Lantana depressa, also known as pineland lantana or coastal shrubverbena, is a species native to Florida and other southeastern states in the United States. It is a low-growing shrub that thrives in sandy soils and coastal areas. The flowers of Lantana depressa are typically yellow or orange and attract butterflies and bees.

4. Lantana involucrata

Lantana involucrata, commonly known as wild sage or beach lantana, is a species native to coastal areas of Florida, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. This variety is a shrub that can reach heights of up to 6 feet. The flowers are typically pink or lavender and are followed by small purple-black berries that attract birds.

5. Lantana trifolia

Lantana trifolia, also known as shrubverbena or cursaleta, is a species native to the Americas and Africa. It is a shrub that can grow up to 10 feet tall and has small clusters of yellow or white flowers. Lantana trifolia is often used as a hedge or screen plant due to its dense foliage.

6. Lantana horrida

Lantana horrida, commonly called the Texas lantana or prickly lantana, is a species native to Texas and Mexico. It is a shrub that can grow up to 4 feet tall and has spiny branches. The flowers of Lantana horrida are typically yellow or orange and attract butterflies and bees.

7. Lantana urticoides

Lantana urticoides, also known as West Indian lantana or caldera bush, is a species native to the West Indies and parts of Central and South America. It is a low-growing shrub with small clusters of yellow or white flowers. Lantana urticoides is often used in butterfly gardens and attracts a variety of pollinators.

8. Lantana rugosa

Lantana rugosa, commonly called rough lantana or sandhill lantana, is a species native to the southeastern United States. It is a sprawling shrub with rough-textured leaves and clusters of yellow or orange flowers. Lantana rugosa is often found in sandy habitats such as sandhills and coastal dunes.

9. Lantana hirsuta

Lantana hirsuta, also known as hairy lantana, is a species native to Central and South America. It is a small shrub with hairy leaves and clusters of yellow or orange flowers. Lantana hirsuta is often found in disturbed areas and is considered an invasive species in some regions.

10. Lantana achyranthifolia

Lantana achyranthifolia, commonly called white lantana or spiny lantana, is a species native to Mexico and Central America. It is a shrub with spiny branches and small clusters of white or pale pink flowers. Lantana achyranthifolia is often used as a hedge plant due to its dense foliage.

These are just a few examples of the diverse range of lantana plants available for gardeners to choose from. Whether you are looking for a ground cover, a trailing plant for hanging baskets, or a shrub for your landscape, there is likely a lantana species that will suit your needs. With their vibrant colors and ability to attract pollinators, lantana plants can add beauty and life to any garden or landscape.