Family VERBENACEAE
Genus Lantana
Species mearnsii
SA Plant Number
Basionym Lantana mearnsii

Lantana mearnsii is a hardy, evergreen, small shrub with aromatic, quilted leaves. The small panicles of white flowers which are held above the leaves attract a whole host of insects and are borne from September to April. These are followed by clumps of flesh covered seeds that turn a pinkish colour. The seeds are relished by birds and seldom get a chance to ripen properly. This is a fairly insignificant shrub but is great in a wildlife garden and attracts a whole host of butterflies.

Plant in sun or semi shade.

Size: 1 to 1.5m

Plants for Pollinators: Many butterfly species visit Lantana mearnsii for its nectar. Small pollinators abound around this plant when it is in flower.

Fruit for birds: Birds relish the fleshy seeds of this plant. They even eat them before they are properly ripe.

Landscaping: Good addition to a garden full of white flowers. Excellent to include in a wildlife garden.

Eastern Cape

Natural Habitat Rocky grasslands near coast

Growth Rate: Fast Growing, Evergreen or Deciduous: Evergreen, Hardiness - Frost: Frost Hardy, Plant Type: Groundcovers and Perennials, Plant Type: Shrub - Small, Position: Semi-shade, Position: Sun - Full, Soil: Loamy - Compost rich Soil, Soil: Well-drained, Garden Uses: Bird Friendly, Garden Uses: Container Plant, Garden Uses: Groundcover, Garden Uses: Local to Gauteng, Garden Uses: Rockeries and retaining walls, Garden Uses: Small Gardens, Hardiness - Drought: Drought Hardy, Garden type: Arid garden, Garden type: Cottage Garden, Garden type: Wildlife Garden,

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