Description
Form: Shrub.
Leaf retention: Evergreen.
Growth rate: Rapid.
Mature Size: 1-2' (30-60cm) high by 4-6' (120-180cm) wide.
Flowers: Small flowers in rounded same-color clusters, purple to white.
Bloom: Mid-spring to frost.
Fruit: Small, round, a fleshy outer layer containing a single hard seed (drupe), reddish-purple to purple when ripe. Some cultivars are sterile and do not produce fruit.
Leaves: Dark green leaves with rough texture, 1" (2.5cm) long. The leaves emit an unpleasant odor when crushed.
Stems: Woody, trailing stems grow along the ground. No thorns.
Wildlife: The flowers attract butterflies and bees. Rabbits and deer avoid this plant.
Toxic / Danger: All parts of this plant are toxic. Contact may cause skin irritation.
Origin: Tropical South America.

Cultivation and Uses
USDA hardiness zones: 8-10. It dies to the ground at 20°F (-6.7°C), but can recover from its roots if properly mulched.
Heat tolerant: Yes.
Drought tolerant: Yes.
Sun: Full sun.
Soil: Well draining, low organic material, pH 6.1-7.8 (slightly acidic to slightly alkaline).
Water once established: Monthly.
Mulch: Cover roots with organic mulch in fall where winter freezes occur.
Prune: After the last freeze, remove dead branches and trim to shape. This plant flowers on new growth.
Litter: Low.
Propagation: Lantana montevidensis is propagated by cuttings because seedlings take years to bloom.
Uses: Ornamental, ground cover, erosion control, low water (xeriscape) garden.

Comments
This plant is a member of the Verbena family (Verbenaceae). Another common name is Purple Lantana. A Queen butterfly is shown in the picture.

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