Lantana depressa
 
Common Names Pineland Lantana, Florida Shrub Verbena, Gold Lantana
 
Zones 10A–11
A low-growing, sun-loving wildflower native to South Florida’s coastal uplands and pine rocklands, Lantana depressa is prized for its bright yellow blooms and ecological value. Unlike its invasive cousin Lantana strigocamara, this species supports native pollinators without disrupting local habitats. Its compact form and year-round flowering make it ideal for restoration and butterfly gardens.
 
Key Features
Growth Habit: Spreading subshrub; mat-forming to loosely mounded
Height: Typically 1–2 ft (0.3–0.6 m); spreads 3–4 ft (0.9–1.2 m)
Leaves: Ovate to lanceolate; lightly toothed; rough texture; aromatic when crushed
Bark: Herbaceous stems; woody base in mature plants
Flowers: Dense clusters; bright yellow to pale yellow; tubular; bloom nearly year-round in frost-free zones
Fruit: Small purple-black drupes; toxic to humans and pets; consumed by birds
Ecology: Attracts butterflies, bees, and moths; larval host for several species; threatened by hybridization with non-native lantanas2
 
Growing Conditions
Light: Full sun
Watering: Low; drought tolerant once established
Soil: Sandy or limestone-based; well-drained; nutrient-poor
Temperature: Sensitive below 30°F (–1°C); regrows in spring
Humidity: High tolerance; ideal for coastal and subtropical gardens
Propagation: Seed or cuttings; avoid hybrids—source from reputable native nurseries3
Tolerance: Heat, drought, salt wind, urban conditions
 
Landscape Use Ideal for butterfly gardens, coastal restoration, and dry native beds. Use in mass plantings or as a low border in pine rockland designs. Pairs well with Senna mexicana var. chapmanii, Koanophyllon villosum, and Passiflora suberosa.