Lantana (Red) in 8″ Pot

A fast-growing, evergreen to semi-evergreen shrub (treated as annual in cooler zones). Height 0.3–2 m (1–6 ft) for compact cultivars; larger forms reach 2–3 m. Stems are square, rough, often prickly. Leaves are opposite, ovate, 2–12 cm long, with toothed margins and a rough, wrinkled surface; aromatic (pungent) when crushed; dark green. Flowers are tiny tubular florets packed in dense, rounded umbels 3–5 cm across. Red cultivars (e.g., ‘American Red’, ‘Dallas Red’, Bandana® Red, Little Lucky™ Red) open yellow/orange and mature to deep red, so clusters show multicolors (red-orange-yellow). Blooms nonstop from late spring to frost in frost-free climates. Fruit are small, round, glossy black berries (toxic). All parts toxic to pets/livestock/humans if ingested; foliage may irritate skin.

Quick care: full sun (≥6–8 hrs) for best flowering; tolerates light afternoon shade (fewer blooms). Prefers well-drained soil—sandy/loam; tolerates poor, clay if drainage is good; pH 6.0–8.0. Water moderately—keep evenly moist when establishing; once established, very drought-tolerant—water deeply but infrequently (allow top 3–5 cm to dry). Overwatering = root rot, weak growth. Heat-lover (20–35 °C/68–95 °F); hardy USDA 9–11 (perennial), 8b with mulch; dies back in frost, regrows from base in zone 9. Feed lightly: balanced slow-release in spring or monthly at half-strength in containers; too much nitrogen = foliage over flowers. Prune after flowering or in early spring to shape, control size, and encourage branching; deadhead not essential (many modern cultivars are low-seed). Space 30–90 cm apart for air flow. Propagate by cuttings (semi-ripe in summer) or seeds (note: can self-seed and become invasive). Generally pest-free; watch for whiteflies, spider mites, aphids, and powdery mildew in shade. Excellent for beds, borders, slopes, containers, butterfly/hummingbird gardens. Can be invasive in tropical/subtropical regions—check local restrictions.