A stalwart in Texas landscapes, Texas lantana grows in various types of soils throughout the state, most abundantly along the coast, and also in Louisiana, Mississippi, and Mexico. It is a low, spreading shrub with rough and aromatic leaves. It grows best in poor, sandy, gravelly soils in hot, dry areas, in full sun or light shade. In all but the very southern part of the state its branches die back in winter and emerge again in spring. Where it does not die back, its stems should be cut back after frost and periodically during the growing season, both to keep it compact and because it flowers on new wood. Lantana flowers profusely with the start of hot weather, in mid- to late summer, with small red, yellow and orange flowers clumped together in clusters. Although its leaves are poisonous to livestock and humans, its nectar is a favorite of butterflies, and many birds eat the fruit. Lantana is the choice for those sites in full sun that are neglected or too far from the hose. Once established, it takes virtually no care except trimming back, and flowers consistently from mid-summer on, always attracting butterflies.
 
Plant Habit or Use: small shrub to medium shrub
Exposure: sun to partial sun
Flower Color: yellow, orange, red
Blooming Period: summer through fall
Fruit Characteristics: black drupe with 2 nutlets
Height: 2 to 6 feet
Width: 2 to 6 feet
Plant Character: deciduous
Heat Tolerance: very high
Water Requirements: low
Soil Requirements: adaptable
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USDA Hardiness Zone: 8