common lantana (SPC Florida Plants )

common lantana

Lantana camara

Summary ²

Lantana is a perennial, erect or prostrate shrub growing to 6 ft. or more in height, and may spread to 8 ft. in width. Lantana camara is a native to tropical regions and exists as dozens of strains and varieties that are highly variable in appearance. Florida has its own native species of Lantana (L. depressa) that is now considered endangered. The native Florida lantana is often confused with the invasive species. In Florida, lantana can grow in a variety of areas including forests, roadsides, pastures, and citrus groves. Leaves are ovate in shape, oppositely arranged, commonly 6 in. long and 2 ½ in. wide. To the touch, lantana leaves feel like fine sandpaper. Leaf blades are serrate and have an aroma when crushed or rubbed. The small flowers are held in clusters, called umbels, at the tip of the stems that are typically 1 to 2 in. across. Small, multicolored flowers change color over time from white to pink or lavender, or yellow to orange or red. Typically the more mature flowers are darker in color (lavender and red). Their seeds are initially green, and will change to a deep purple and eventually black color. Leaf characteristics can be used to distinguish the native lantana (L. depressa) from the invasive lantana (L. camara). Native lantana has a tapered leaf base, whereas the invasive lantana has a truncate leaf base. Flower color can also be used to distinguish between species. Native lantana has a yellow flower whereas invasive lantana has a multitude of flower colors. Lantana camara has successfully hybridized with native lantana, making identification of the invasive species more difficult.

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More Info

Range Map

iNat Map

Flowers	Pink, Purple, Red, Yellow, Orange
Leaf type	Simple
Leaf arrangement	Opposite
Leaf shape	Ovate
Ecosystem	Interior uplands
Leaf characteristics	Aromatic

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