The genus Lantana includes many species widely cultivated across the globe for their durability and continuous, showy clusters of small flowers. These plants are a common sight in warm climates, often valued for attracting butterflies and other pollinators. Determining whether this popular plant is naturally occurring in Florida is complicated by the presence of multiple species and varieties within the state. To understand Lantana’s status, a distinction must be made between species native to the ecosystem and those introduced for ornamental purposes.
Native Status of Lantana in Florida
The common, vibrant shrub most people recognize from garden centers is generally not native to Florida. This non-native plant, often sold as Lantana camara, originated in the tropical Americas and was introduced to Florida as an ornamental plant in the early 1800s. Its widespread use and ability to escape cultivation have led to its classification as a Category I invasive species by the Florida Exotic Pest Plant Council.
Florida does, however, have its own naturally occurring species, most notably Lantana involucrata, commonly known as buttonsage or wild lantana. This native species is a component of coastal and scrub habitats, differentiating it ecologically from the invasive variety. The presence of both native and non-native species requires a careful, informed approach to plant selection for Florida homeowners and gardeners.
Distinguishing Physical Characteristics
Differentiating between the invasive and native Lantana species requires close observation of several physical traits. The most easily identifiable difference lies in the flowers of the non-native Lantana camara, which typically display multiple colors—such as yellow, orange, and red—within a single cluster, or change color as they age. In contrast, the native Lantana involucrata produces flowers that are noticeably smaller and are usually a solid white or pale lavender color, sometimes with a slight yellow throat.
The leaves and growth habit also provide important clues for identification. Invasive Lantana camara generally exhibits a sprawling, dense growth pattern and features rough, serrated leaves. The native buttonsage (L. involucrata) typically grows in a more upright, shrubby form, reaching heights of three to five feet. Furthermore, the leaves of the native species have a more rounded shape and a distinct, aromatic sage-like odor when crushed.
Ecological Consequences of Invasive Species
The non-native Lantana camara presents significant ecological problems due to its aggressive growth and ability to thrive in a wide range of conditions. Classified as a Category I invasive, it actively alters natural plant communities by forming dense, impenetrable thickets that displace local flora and reduce biodiversity.
The plant’s success is partly due to allelopathy, where it releases chemicals that inhibit the growth of surrounding vegetation, giving it a competitive advantage. Furthermore, L. camara produces a prolific number of seeds that are readily consumed and dispersed by birds, leading to its rapid spread. Compounding the issue is the potential for the non-native species to hybridize with the native Lantana depressa, threatening the genetic integrity of indigenous plant populations.
Toxicity and Safety
Beyond the ecological concerns, many Lantana varieties pose a safety risk to humans and animals due to their inherent toxicity. The plant’s leaves and berries contain highly toxic compounds known as pentacyclic triterpenoids, specifically lantadene A and lantadene B. These compounds are hepatotoxins, meaning they primarily affect the liver.
Ingestion of the plant material, particularly the green, unripe berries, can lead to poisoning in humans, pets, and livestock. Symptoms typically include severe gastrointestinal distress, such as vomiting and hemorrhagic diarrhea. In serious cases, liver damage can lead to intrahepatic cholestasis, resulting in jaundice and photosensitization, particularly in grazing animals. For safety, Lantana should be placed where children and domestic animals cannot easily access the foliage or the attractive fruit.