Lantana is a popular ornamental plant grown for the brightly colored flowers that bloom nonstop for months, attracting hummingbirds, butterflies and other insect pollinators. Hardy in USDA Zones 9-11, this tender shrub is grown as an annual in most regions.

This versatile plant is easy to grow in containers and combines well with many other annuals. Here are some tips on growing lantana in pots.

LANTANA TYPES

Lantana comes in different forms, making it suitable for a variety of containers. Plants can reach 3 to 4 feet tall and 1 to 3 feet wide in a single growing season, with trailing forms reaching up to 3 feet long. Dwarf lantana typically grow no more than 8 to 24 inches tall and wide, depending on the variety.

Bush types can be used in upright containers as a stand-alone accent or in combination with other plants. Some of the best varieties include Luscious® Goldengate™, Landmark™ Citrus, and ‘Dallas Red’.

Trailing or spreading forms are suitable for hanging baskets and window boxes. Varieties include Luscious Grape®, purple trailing verbena (L. montevidensis) and Spreading Sunset™.

Dwarf or smaller varieties are valuable for small spaces, window boxes and in combination with other plants. These include Bandana® Lemon Zest, Patriot™ Rainbow Compact and Little Lucky™ Red.

LANTANA CARE IN POTS

Follow these tips for potted lantana to promote lush growth and prolific flowering:

Container specifications: Use a container that is big enough to accommodate the root ball, taking into account a full season’s growth. Allow extra room if other plants will be included. Make sure there are adequate drainage holes.

Light: Lantana blooms best in full sun. Choose a site with at least 6 hours of direct sun per day.

Soil: Use a high quality all-purpose potting mix that drains well. Add sand, vermiculite, or perlite to improve drainage if needed.

How often to water lantana in pots: Lantana are somewhat drought tolerant. Plants in containers need more regular watering than those in the ground. When the top 1 to 2 inches of soil feels dry, it’s time to water. Avoid splashing the foliage and provide good air circulation to help prevent diseases. Overwatering can cause root rot.

Fertilizing: Plants in containers need more frequent fertilizing than those in the ground, as nutrients leach out more quickly. Add a granular slow-release fertilizer to the soil at the time of planting. Supplement with a water soluble liquid fertilizer once a month through the growing season.

How to prune lantana in pots: Deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote new blooms. If plants become leggy by midsummer, cut back by up to one-third.

Learn more about how to grow & care for lantana.

HOW TO OVERWINTER LANTANA IN CONTAINERS

Lantana can be overwintered indoors from year to year. Follow these tips:

• Bring plants indoors before the first frost in fall.
• Place in a cool room that receives bright indirect light.
• Water infrequently, just enough to keep soil moist.
• Gradually acclimate plants outdoors in spring when nighttime temperatures are consistently 55 degrees F or above.

FAQ'S

Does lantana do well in containers/pots? Lantana does especially well in containers as long as basic growing conditions are met.

Does lantana do well in hanging baskets? Yes, trailing or spreading types of lantana are best for hanging baskets.

What to plant with lantana in a container? Many annuals pair well with lantana. Use the principle of “thriller, spiller, and filler” to help determine compatible plants. Combine with plants with similar cultural needs of full sun and well draining soil. (See ideas below.)

Can you plant lantana in window boxes? Trailing or dwarf varieties grow well in window boxes. Combine with other smaller annuals with similar needs.

Which lantanas are best for pots? Any lantana is suitable for pots as long as its growing needs are met.

LANTANA CONTAINER COMPANIONS

Lantana combines well with a wide array of annuals, including angelonia, bidens, canna lily, cuphea, gazania, marigold, calibrachoa, nasturtium, nemesia, pentas, petunia, salvia, scaevola, sweet potato vine and verbena.

CONTAINER RECIPES

Try these lantana combinations:

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