Why Is Lantana a Problem? The Surprising Truth About This Prolific Flower

Lantana produces a continuous array of vibrant, small tubular flowers throughout summer. Attracting butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds, this cheerful vining plant blooms in various colors, including pink, red, purple, yellow, white, and orange. The delicate flowers start light in color and become more vibrant as they mature.

While this colorful plant can be a stunning and low-maintenance addition to your garden, it isn't suitable for every climate. In some areas, lantana is an invasive species that can outcompete other desirable plants for nutrients. Ahead, gardening experts explain why lantana is problematic in certain areas and what to do if it has taken over your landscape.

What Is Lantana?

Lantana is a genus of flowering plants in the verbena family, Verbenaceae. It's native to tropical regions of Central and South America. Lantana is widely cultivated for its clusters of small, brightly colored flowers that attract pollinators. The plant is drought-tolerant, thrives in various climates, and can be grown in the garden and containers, says Ankit K. Singh, agriculture professor at the University of Maine Cooperative Extension. Popular varieties of this vibrant plant include Lantana camara and Lantana montevidensis.

Is Lantana Invasive?

Despite its beauty, lantana is highly invasive in many areas, especially in Hawaii, California, Texas, and Florida, as well as other tropical and subtropical climates. Lantana camara is classified as an invasive species in over 60 countries and is considered one of the world's top ten worst invasive species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), according to Singh.

The plant's rapid growth, ability to thrive in poor soil, and ability to outcompete native species contribute to its aggressive spread in natural habitats. However, in regions with frosty winters, this eye-catching plant is more manageable and typically behaves as an annual.

How Lantana Harms the Landscape

Although the long-blooming, cheerful flowers appear harmless, this plant can be harmful to your garden and landscape.

Outcompetes Native Plants

Lantana forms dense thickets of flowers, blocking sunlight and consuming water and nutrients, leaving little for native plants. It can significantly reduce biodiversity by displacing native flora.

Harms Livestock and Wildlife

Lantana's leaves and unripe berries are toxic to many animals, including cattle, horses, cats, and dogs, causing serious health issues if ingested.

Has Allelopathic Effects

Lantana releases chemicals into the soil that inhibit the growth of other plants nearby, creating an imbalance in the ecosystem.

Increases Fire Risk

The plant's dry leaves and woody stems are highly flammable, contributing to the spread of wildfires in invaded areas.

Difficult to Control

Lantana's invasive roots can spread rapidly, making it difficult to control in home gardens. Regular pruning and maintenance are needed to prevent it from taking over landscapes.

How to Get Rid of Lantana

The best way to control an invasive species is to avoid planting it, says botanist Tom Groves. However, if you find yourself dealing with an existing invasive plant problem, he says it can be managed through mechanical or chemical control methods.

Hand Pull Lantana Plants

One effective method is to hand pull this invasive plant from the ground. Do so by digging up the plants carefully, ensuring the entire root system is removed, says Hannah Howland, perennials manager at Plants Unlimited. Dispose of the plant material in the trash. Don't compost lantana, as this can lead to further spread.

Remove Seeds Before They Germinate

If any lantana plants have already produced seeds, locate and remove the round black seeds before they can germinate. Dispose of the seeds in the trash to minimize their spread.

Regularly Inspect Your Landscape

Regularly inspect your landscape for lantana, especially areas that have recently been disturbed by the plant. If lantana plants are found in a new area, remove them before they flower or set seeds. During the next growing season make sure to monitor for any newly germinating or missed plants.

Use an Herbicide

If the area is too large to manage easily, you can mow or cut the lantana plants and then quickly apply an herbicide. “Larger populations may be more effectively controlled with chemical methods, such as foliar and cut stump applications," says Groves.

Hire a Professional

Assess the full extent of the issue. "Depending on your ability and level of motivation, if the population is extensive (1 acre or more) it’s wise to consider hiring a professional," says Groves. A professional can also advise the best way to treat lantana.