Perennials: Lantana montevidensis

description for "Perennials: Lantana montevidensis"

Trailing Lantana is also known as Weeping Lantana or Polecat Geranium. A Tropical America native that is deer resistant and fire retardant. Valued for its profuse show of color over a long season, plants will bloom continually until the first frost arrives! This is a well known variety and one of the best and most popular. Fast growth allows for its versatility as a ground cover, bank cover, erosion control plant, hanging basket plant, low hedge, amongst shrubs, replacement for annuals or for use in containers. Dislikes shade and continually overcast days and is susceptible to mildew if in that environment. Enjoys full sun and infrequent, deep watering. Well-drained fertile soil is best. Plants in containers should be top-dressed annually in spring and watered well when in full growth, less at other times. The button-like flowers are rosy purple. Dark green oval foliage is rough with slightly prickly stems and occasionally carries tiny fruits like blackberry drupelets when the flower season has ended. The toothed edged foliage is tinged red or purplish, especially in cold winter months. Prune hard in spring to remove dead wood and prevent woodiness. Too much water and fertilizer cuts down on flower production. Tip prune young growth to promote bushy habit. This species is hardier than the hybrids. Sometimes listed as Lantana sellowiana. Attracts birds and butterflies.