Species Profile: Lantana Gold

Common Name: Lantana Gold (also known as Texas Lantana, Yellow Lantana)
Scientific Name: Lantana urticoides (yellow/gold cultivar)

Location: Native to Texas and northern Mexico, thriving in prairies, rocky slopes, open fields, and roadside habitats. Frequently planted in Central Texas landscapes for its heat and drought tolerance.

Mating Habits: Reproduces by seed and vegetative growth. Pollinated by a variety of insects, especially butterflies and bees, as well as hummingbirds.

Seasonal Habits / Bloom Time: Blooms from spring through late fall (April to November). Peak blooms occur in the heat of summer when many other flowers are dormant.

Ecological Relevance: Provides abundant nectar for pollinators during hot, dry periods. Supports butterflies such as the Monarch, Queen, Swallowtails, and Painted Lady, as well as native bees and hummingbirds. Its berries provide food for birds.

Interesting Facts:

• Flowers open bright yellow and may shift to gold or orange as they mature.

• More compact than mixed-color lantanas, making it ideal for borders and pollinator gardens.

• Extremely resilient, tolerating poor soils and minimal watering.

Wildlife Associations: Attracts butterflies, including long-distance migrants, native bees, and hummingbirds. Birds, particularly mockingbirds and finches, feed on the berries.

Conservation Note: Choose native Lantana urticoides cultivars like Lantana Gold instead of non-native lantana species to ensure ecological compatibility and avoid invasive tendencies.