By Ponty
Norfolk, United Kingdom
My wife bought this plant at a small 'garden centre' yesterday because it looked a little poorly and she felt sorry for it.
It had no label, the vendor didn't know what it was and I haven't a clue.
Any offers, please?
- 2 Aug, 2010
Answers
That was quick, Spritz! Thanks. I will look it up. I forgot to mention that it has woody stems, so I thought it might be a shrub. I have not planted it yet so I will find out more before taking the risk of planting it out.
2 Aug, 2010
I think it's a Lantana too, my guess is L.camara, sometimes called Ham & Eggs or Spanish Flag. I've seen them growing as a hedge in Malta, but they're not hardy enough to stay outdoors here. Call it a tender shrub?
2 Aug, 2010
Nice, though - the flowers change colour as they age, so you get different coloured flowers on the same plant. :-))
2 Aug, 2010
It is indeed Lantana. The berries after the flowers are very toxic so make sure you wash your hands after touching if they appear. All parts are considered toxic in fact though the berries more so. Still a lovely plant and as said must br brought indoors before frosts.
You see it in any Butterfly House as they just love it.
2 Aug, 2010
Thanks, everyone. We will now nurture it and ensure it Winters indoors.
3 Aug, 2010
Beattie is right saying they are trained to grow as hedges in Malta,and I confirm it is Lantana.One can see about 4 or 5 diff colours in San Anton
Gardens.
3 Aug, 2010
Yep, Lantana camara. It looks like the variety we know as 'Radiation', here in the States.
3 Aug, 2010
Thanks again, all. I looked at it this morning and find it difficult to believe, Spritz - there's a colour change already!
Thanks for the tip re. toxicity, Fractal. I'll have to keep it away from my inquisitive grand-sons!
4 Aug, 2010
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Pretty sure it's a Lantana, Ponty. People use them as bedding plants. I don't think it would survive a UK winter outdoors.
2 Aug, 2010