Lantana camara

Lantana camara is a perennial shrub which can grow up to 2m in the wild, even scramble up into trees. It forms dense thickets in a variety of environments.  The green leaves are broadly ovate, with a strong odour when crushed. The small tubular-shaped flowers are arranged in clusters at the end of the stems, and come in many different colours, including red, yellow, white, pink and orange, which differ depending on location in inflorescences, age, and maturity. The flower has a tutti frutti smell with a peppery undertone. After pollination occurs, the colour of the flowers changes (typically from yellow to orangish, pinkish, or reddish). In frost-free climates the plant can bloom all year round, especially when the soil is moist.

Lantana camara has been grown specifically for use as an ornamental plant. Its ability to last for a relatively long time without water, and the fact that it does not have many pests or diseases which affect it, have contributed to it becoming a common ornamental plant. It also attracts butterflies and birds and is frequently used in butterfly gardens. It can be grown in pot, and trailing varieties can even be grown in hanging baskets. In cold climates it is often cultivated indoors, or in a conservatory, but can also thrive in a garden with sufficient shelter. 

The leaves can display antimicrobial, fungicidal and insecticidal properties. It is used in traditional herbal medicines for treating cancer, skin itches, leprosy, chicken pox, measles, asthma and ulcers.

Many butterfly species feed on the nectar of Lantana flowers, as well as hummingbirds. 

In the biggest species, its stalks have been used in the construction of furniture, such as chairs and tables.

It thrills sunny location and a well-draining soil. Although it is tolerant of many soil conditions, it prefers slightly acidic soil (can be obtained by mulching with pine needles). Once the temperatures warm up in the year, it will grow abundantly.

While newly planted Lantana require frequent watering, once established, it require little maintenance and is even tolerant of somewhat dry conditions. In fact, a good soaking once a while in hot season should keep it relatively happy. To encourage reblooming, it is best to cut the tips (deadhead) periodically. Overgrown plant can be given new life by cutting back a third of its growth. It will bounce back quickly. Regular pruning of the plant usually takes before the hot season fully starts.