Lantana

Lantana was introduced to Hawai`i as an ornamental in 1858. It is native to Central and South America.

Lantana is a perennial evergreen with brittle branches that can grow as a winding vine, or as an upright shrub up to 6 feet tall. Its deeply veined, oval shaped leaves have scalloped edges that are simple, opposite and coated with fine, rough hairs. Lantana flowers grow in orange and yellow clusters (called umbels) which turn pink after being pollinated by butterflies and moths.

In the wild, Lantana has been found to grow where native nitrogen-fixing trees are present, such as in areas recovering after fires. It does well in full sun with little moisture.

Traditional Cultural and Medicinal Usages

• Ornamental