Lantana montevidensis aka Purple Lantana

Lantana montevidensis is a low, spreading shrub in the verbena family. Gardeners call it trailing lantana or weeping lantana. Its native range runs from Bolivia through Brazil to northern Argentina. It comes from tropical lands with a dry season. The plant grows fast and keeps its leaves in warm climates. Garden plants reach about 1–3.3 feet [0.3–1 metre] tall. They spread about 3–5 feet [0.9–1.5 metres] wide. Sources differ most on height, with some describing much lower plants.

Thin, hairy stems trail across the ground and form thick mats. Young stems have four sides but become rounder and woody. Stems may root where their nodes touch the soil. The dark green leaves grow in opposite pairs. Each leaf has an egg shape and fine teeth. The upper face feels rough, while soft hairs cover the underside. Crushed leaves give off an unpleasant smell. Leaves and sap can irritate skin, so wear gloves when handling.

Small, funnel-shaped flowers form rounded heads on long stalks. Their shades range from lilac to pink-purple, with yellow throats. Flowers open from the outer edge toward each head's centre. Bloom can last from June until frost. Butterflies and other pollinators visit the flowers. Birds also use the plant as a food source. The reddish-purple to purple fruits are small drupes. Each holds one hard seed. Unripe fruit is poisonous, and the plant is harmful if eaten. Leaves can also make pets and livestock ill.

Grow this lantana in full sun with good soil drainage. It accepts sand, loam, clay, and chalk across several pH levels. Sources recommend moist soil but also note tolerance of dry conditions. It withstands coastal heat, humidity, and salt spray. Missouri Botanical Garden lists USDA zones 8–10. In zone 8, winter may kill the top growth. Mulched roots can send up new shoots in spring. RHS rates it H1B for UK conditions. There, grow it under glass or outdoors during summer.

Use its trailing stems in pots, hanging baskets, or over walls. It also covers ground and helps limit erosion on slopes. Cold-climate gardens can grow it as an annual. Care needs are low, but whiteflies and spider mites may attack. Powdery mildew, leaf spot, and stem rot can occur. Mildew poses more risk where sunlight is weak. The plant has naturalized beyond its native range, including Australia and the southern United States. In these areas, it can become a weed of pastures, roadsides, and disturbed ground.