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Description
Lantana Strigocamara is a beautiful and hardy plant that belongs to the Verbenaceae family. It is native to South America and is also known as the Lantana camara var. strigocamara. This plant produces clusters of vibrant flowers that come in a range of colors including pink, red, orange, yellow, and white. It is a popular choice for gardens and landscapes due to its beauty and hardiness.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Verbenaceae |
| Genus | Lantana |
Appearance
Lantana Strigocamara is a shrub that can grow up to 2 meters tall. It has a bushy habit and produces clusters of small, tubular flowers that are arranged in flat-topped, round flowerheads. The flowers are usually a mix of colors, with each flowerhead having multiple colors. The leaves are simple, dark green, and ovate with toothed margins. The fruit is a small, fleshy drupe that contains a single seed.
Care Guide
Lantana Strigocamara is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: This plant prefers well-draining soil and should be watered regularly. Do not overwater as this can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize this plant during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. Amend the soil with organic matter before planting.
- Sunlight: Lantana Strigocamara prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but will produce fewer flowers.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lantana Strigocamara is generally free from pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites, whiteflies, and aphids. To prevent infestations, keep the plant well-watered and fertilized. If an infestation occurs, treat it with an insecticidal soap or neem oil. This plant can also be susceptible to root rot if overwatered.
Habitat
Lantana Strigocamara is native to South America but has been naturalized in many parts of the world including Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean. It grows in a variety of habitats including forests, grasslands, and disturbed areas. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate drought and poor soil conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lantana Strigocamara toxic to pets?
A: Yes, this plant can be toxic to pets if ingested. Keep it out of reach of pets and children.
Q: Does Lantana Strigocamara attract butterflies?
A: Yes, this plant is a favorite of butterflies and other pollinators.
Q: How often should I fertilize Lantana Strigocamara?
A: Fertilize this plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Lantana Strigocamara be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers. Use a well-draining potting mix and water regularly.
Related Plants
- Lantana camara
- Lantana montevidensis
- Lantana trifolia
- Lantana involucrata
References
- “Lantana camara var. strigocamara”. Missouri Botanical Garden.
- “Lantana strigocamara”. Plantzafrica.com.
- “Lantana strigocamara”. Floridata.com.
