Description of Lantana sellowiana Link & Otto
Lantana sellowiana Link & Otto is a species of flowering plant belonging to the family Verbenaceae. The plant is commonly known as Sellow's Lantana, Misty Lantana, or Brazilian Lantana. It is native to South America, specifically Brazil, Uruguay, and Argentina. The plant's scientific name "Lantana sellowiana" was named after Friedrich Sellow, a German botanist who collected the type specimen in Brazil.
Appearance of Lantana sellowiana Link & Otto
Lantana sellowiana is a perennial shrub that can grow up to 1-2 meters in height. It has a sprawling growth habit with multiple branches and a bushy appearance. The plant has rough, textured leaves that are serrated along the margins and oval-shaped. The leaves are a dark green color with a matte finish and are arranged oppositely along the stem.
The flowers of Lantana sellowiana are small, tubular-shaped, and clustered together into round inflorescences. The inflorescences consist of numerous flowers that are pink, purple, or white in color. When the flowers bloom, they attract pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. In the fall, the plant produces an edible fruit that is sweet and tangy.
Uses of Lantana sellowiana Link & Otto
Lantana sellowiana has several uses, both in traditional medicine and horticulture. The leaves of the plant are believed to have medicinal properties and have been used to treat various ailments such as bronchitis, coughs, and colds in native South American tribes. The plant is also used to make herbal teas that are said to have antispasmodic and digestive properties.
In horticulture, Lantana sellowiana is a popular ornamental plant in gardens and as a groundcover. The plant is drought-tolerant, requires minimal maintenance, and is known to attract beneficial wildlife like butterflies and bees. The plant's dense growth habit and colorful flowers make it an excellent plant for landscaping and erosion control.
Overall, Lantana sellowiana is a beautiful and versatile plant that has both medicinal and ornamental uses.
Light Requirements
The Lantana sellowiana plant thrives well in areas with full sun exposure. These plants require at least six hours of sunlight per day to grow and flower correctly. In areas with low to partial exposure to sunlight, the plant may grow weak and fail to bloom.
Temperature Requirements
The Lantana sellowiana plant thrives well in hot and humid conditions. The plant grows in USDA zones of 9-11, where the temperature ranges between 18°C and 23°C. The plant can withstand a cool climate, but growth is minimal, and the flowers may not bloom as expected. Frost is detrimental to the plant, and it may not survive winter temperatures.
Soil Requirements
The Lantana sellowiana plant grows well in well-drained soil with a pH range of 5.5-7.5. The plant prefers moist, fertile soils with ample nutrients. However, the plants can survive in sandy soils as long as they get enough water regularly. The soil should also be loose and not compact, which may affect the root development of the plant.
Cultivation
Lantana sellowiana, commonly known as the Brazilian Lantana, is a perennial shrub that grows up to 5 feet tall and 5 feet wide. It is an easy plant to cultivate, and it prefers a well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant thrives in full sun to partial shade, and it can tolerate a wide range of soil pH.
The best time to plant the Brazilian Lantana is in spring after the last frost. Dig a hole that is twice the size of the root ball, and place the plant in the hole. Fill the hole with soil, and water the plant thoroughly. Space the plants at least 3 feet apart to allow enough room for growth.
Watering Needs
During the growing season, the Brazilian Lantana should be watered regularly to maintain moist soil. However, be cautious not to overwater the plant as it can lead to root rot. The plant is drought-tolerant, and it can survive without water for a short time. In winter, reduce watering to avoid waterlogging the soil.
Fertilization
For optimal growth and bloom, the Brazilian Lantana requires periodic fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply the fertilizer during the growing season, three times a year. Be cautious not to use an excess amount of fertilizer as it can harm the plant.
Pruning
The Brazilian Lantana requires minimal pruning to maintain its shape and form. Prune the plant in the late winter or early spring before the growing season starts. Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches. Trim the plant to the desired size and shape. Pinching the tips of the new growth can also promote bushier growth and more blooms.
Propagation of Lantana Sellowiana Link & Otto
Lantana sellowiana Link & Otto, also known as the Brazilian Lantana, is a species of flowering plant in the Verbenaceae family. It is a popular ornamental plant that requires minimal maintenance. Propagating Lantana sellowiana is relatively easy, but there are specific methods to follow to increase the success rate.
Propagation Methods
Lantana sellowiana can be propagated through seeds, cuttings, and division.
Seeds
Seeds are the most common way to propagate Lantana sellowiana. You can collect seeds from the plant's dried fruit and sow them in well-draining soil. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and water them thoroughly. Keep the soil consistently moist until the seeds germinate. This usually takes 1-2 weeks.
Cuttings
Cuttings are another popular way to propagate Lantana sellowiana. Take cuttings from the parent plant during the growing season and place them in a rooting hormone. Insert the cutting into a well-draining soil mix, preferably composed of sand and peat. Water the cutting and cover it with a plastic bag to keep the humidity high. Rooting usually takes 2-4 weeks.
Division
Division is another propagation method for Lantana sellowiana. This method involves dividing the parent plant into smaller sections. Ensure each section has roots and shoots. Plant each section in a well-draining soil mix and water generously. Keep the soil moist until new growth appears, signaling that the division process was successful.
Regardless of the propagation method, ensure the plant receives a sufficient amount of light and water to ensure optimal growth and rooting.
Disease and Pest Management for Lantana Sellowiana
Lantana sellowiana Link & Otto, also known as shrub verbena or yellow sage, is a beautiful flowering plant that is commonly grown in gardens and landscapes. While it is generally a low maintenance plant, it can still get affected by some common diseases and pests. Here are a few management strategies to help you protect your Lantana sellowiana from damage.
Common Diseases
Lantana sellowiana can be susceptible to a few fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew, leaf spot, and rust. Powdery mildew appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves and stems, while leaf spot is characterized by small brown or black spots on the leaves. Rust appears as orange or brown spots on the leaves. To manage these diseases:
- Remove and dispose of infected plant debris and fallen leaves.
- Avoid overhead watering, as excess moisture can promote fungal growth.
- Spray the plant with a fungicide that is labeled for Lantana sellowiana.
Common Pests
Lantana sellowiana can also be bothered by a few pests, such as spider mites, aphids, and scales. Spider mites, for instance, are tiny insects that suck the sap from the plant, causing yellow or brown spots on the leaves. Aphids and scales also suck sap from the plant, leading to leaf distortion and discoloration. To manage these pests:
- Spray the plant with a strong jet of water to knock off as many bugs as possible.
- Apply an insecticidal soap or oil that is labeled for Lantana sellowiana.
- Introduce natural predators, such as ladybugs or lacewings, to control the pest population.
By following these disease and pest management strategies, you can help keep your Lantana sellowiana healthy and thriving for years to come.
