shrubN. America Native

Samantha Lantana

Lantana camara 'Samantha'

Same species

Species

Lantana camaraLantana

19 other cultivars

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

18 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

8, 9

Water

Moderate, drought-tolerant once established

Humidity

Prefers dry to moderate humidity

Lifespan

Perennial in suitable zones

Native To

Central and South America

Toxicity

Toxic to pets if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Lantana 'Samantha' is a compact, mounding shrub prized for its striking variegated foliage of green with creamy yellow margins and its clusters of bright yellow flowers. This cultivar is distinguished by its stable, non-reverting variegated foliage, which provides season-long interest even when not in bloom. Its flowers are a consistent bright yellow.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesBright yellow flowers add cheerful color to gardens and attract pollinators, enhancing ecological health.
Practical UsesDrought-tolerant and low-maintenance, ideal for water-wise landscaping.
Ecological BenefitsSupports bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, promoting biodiversity.

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds or cuttings into well-draining soil in spring.
  2. Water regularly until established, about 2 weeks.
  3. Mist cuttings daily to encourage rooting.
  4. Transplant seedlings when they are 4 inches tall, after 8 weeks.
  5. Place in full sun for optimal flowering.
  6. Fertilize monthly with balanced fertilizer during growing season.

Pro Tip

Ensure good drainage and full sun for best growth and blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water deeply once a week during dry spells 🌱
  • Prune after flowering to maintain shape
  • Use balanced fertilizer monthly during active growth

Don't

  • Overwater to prevent root rot ❌
  • Avoid heavy fertilization in winter ❌
  • Do not prune in late fall ❌

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Fertilize
Prune
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Colorful border with fragrant flowersDrought-tolerant hedgeWildlife-friendly garden corner

Companion Plants

Lavender Salvia Coreopsis Blanket flower Russian sage

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Samantha Lantana questions

What zones can Samantha Lantana grow in?

Samantha Lantana is hardy in USDA Zones 8–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Samantha Lantana deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Samantha Lantana, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Samantha Lantana bloom?

Samantha Lantana typically blooms in summer to fall through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Samantha Lantana need full sun?

Samantha Lantana does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Samantha Lantana drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Samantha Lantana handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.

Keep exploring

Grow Samantha Lantana with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.