Texas lantana (Lantana urticoides)
Care, watering, light and tips for Texas lantana on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Verbenaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Texas lantana
Lantana urticoides, commonly known as Texas Lantana, is a fast-growing perennial shrub native to Texas and the southeastern United States. It is notable for its clusters of yellow and orange flowers that attract pollinators, making it ideal for low-maintenance gardens, rockeries, or as groundcover in warm climates. Its rough, aromatic foliage adds textural interest to the landscape.
Native range
Texas, United States and northeastern Mexico
Care tips
This lantana thrives in full sun and tolerates poor, well-drained soils, including sandy or rocky types. It is very drought-tolerant once established, requiring occasional watering only during extreme dry spells. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot; a common mistake is planting it in poorly drained soil. Pruning in early spring encourages denser growth and abundant flowering.
How to save a dying Texas lantana
- Warning signs
- Yellowing and dropping leaves, soft or dry stems, poor or no flowering.
- First aid
- Check drainage and soil moisture. Prune damaged stems. Place in full sun.
- What kills it
- Overwatering (root rot) or lack of sun. Doesn't tolerate frost or dense shade.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes! It's resilient. With good drainage, sun, and pruning, it recovers.