Lantana camara 'Pinata'

Lantana camara 'Pinata' (Chameleon Flower) is a vibrant cultivar of the species Lantana camara in the Verbenaceae family, prized for its multi-colored flowers and compact habit. This perennial shrub, often grown as an annual in temperate climates, is ideal for pots, hanging baskets, borders or gardens, due to its continuous blooms and ability to attract pollinators such as butterflies and hummingbirds. The name 'Pinata' reflects the explosion of colors of the flowers, which range from bright yellow to orange and red.

Appearance of leaves and flowers

The leaves are ovate, 5-8 cm long, with serrated edges, dark green, with a rough texture. They have an aromatic, slightly pungent fragrance when crushed. The foliage is dense, providing a contrasting background for the flowers. The flowers are small, tubular, grouped in round inflorescences, 3-4 cm, with a color palette that goes from deep yellow to orange and red, changing as they mature. This color variation creates a dynamic visual effect. They bloom from May to October, with a subtle floral fragrance. They are extremely attractive to butterflies and hummingbirds.

Growth characteristics

It reaches 30-45 cm in height and 45-60 cm in width, forming a compact, well-branched, mountainous shrub. Fast, uniform growth, ideal for small spaces or combinations in pots. It is more compact than other varieties of Lantana camara. Perennial in warm areas, treated as an annual in temperate climates. The leaves may persist in mild winters.

Growing conditions

Prefers full sun (6-8 hours/day) for abundant flowering. Tolerates partial shade, but produces fewer flowers. Grows in well-drained, fertile soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.5). Tolerates poor soils, but benefits from the addition of compost. Water when the top 2-3 cm of soil is dry, about once every 5-7 days. It is drought tolerant once established, but avoids soggy soils. Hardy in zones 9-11 (down to 0°C). In Romania, it is grown as an annual or brought indoors in winter. Prefers temperatures of 20-30°C.

Care and resistance

Tolerant of drought, heat and poor soil. Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds, but is deer resistant. May be affected by mites, whiteflies or aphids; treat with insecticidal soap. Tolerates salt and urban pollution. Apply a balanced fertilizer (e.g. 10-10-10) every 4-6 weeks in spring and summer. Avoid over-fertilizing, which favors foliage over flowers. Prune in early spring to maintain compact form. Remove faded flowers to encourage continued flowering. Light pruning after each bloom encourages new blooms. Propagate by 10-15 cm cuttings in spring or summer, or by seeds, which germinate in 2-3 weeks at 20-25°C. All parts of the plant are toxic if ingested, and are dangerous to children, pets and farm animals. May cause skin irritation on contact.

Use

Lantana 'Pinata' is ideal for pots, hanging baskets, borders, rock gardens or combinations with other annuals, such as salvia or zinnia. Its multi-colored flowers add a burst of color, combining well with plants with silver foliage or white flowers. It is suitable for tropical gardens, urban landscapes or terraces. They attract pollinators, contributing to biodiversity.

Origin

Lantana camara is native to Central and South America, but cultivars such as 'Pinata' have been developed for ornamental use, due to their vibrant colors and compact habit. The species was introduced to Europe by Dutch explorers and has spread globally, sometimes becoming invasive.