The common Lantana (Lantana camara) is a flowering shrub that grows beautifully in the Ozarks. The flower clusters of the Lantana shown here, which may be a cultivar or hybrid, are a colorful mix of red, yellow, orange, and white florets that change color even during a day. Native to the tropical Americas, Lantanas are related to verbena and sometimes called Shrub Verbena. Many colorful hybrids and cultivars are available. All are attractive to butterflies and bees, and birds love to eat the berries. This common Lantana grows as wide as four feet and as tall as 4-6 feet. The shrubs can be pruned to keep them under control. They are not hardy in the Ozarks.
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