West Indian Lantana

Description:

This is an evergreen shrub that may grow up to 6 feet, and some varieties may be able to clamber vinelike to higher areas with the help of support. The leaf blades are from ovate to oblong, papery, wrinkled, and with short stiff hairs.The leaves are opposite in phyllotaxy, and are aromatic when crushed. Flowers are in an umbel, with a large range of colors changing from orange to red, white to pink, and so on. (eflora & Floridata)

Habitat:

I found this Lantana in a park near the city's water district, but Lantanas are able to live anywhere and I find them all over the place even in other areas (Like in Cebu and many other places). This is an invasive species that has adapted to live almost anywhere.

Notes:

This plant was introduced to the Philippines through the Makiling Forestry School as part of a botanical academic exchange between America and the Philippines, but it escaped into the wild and naturalized throughout the island. This Lantana also has medicinal and, of course, ornamental uses. The methanolic extract of its leaves show healing of Gastric ulcers. Even though it has medicinal uses, it is toxic and has reported to make animals ill after ingestion. Lantana camara is a hardy plant that is not affected by pests or disease, has low water requirements, and is tolerant of high heat. This makes it popular in many gardens.