Genus of about 150 species of evergreen shrubs and perennials from tropical North, Central, and South America, and South Africa. In areas where it is adapted it can become a weed. In northern areas, the plant is used as an annual bedding plant or a pot plant. Lantana tolerates dry soils and should be grown in full sun. Size range from 2-4' for the upright species, 12-24" for trailing lantana. Small, rounded clusters of flowers in bright solids or multi-colors. Useful in beds, borders, hanging baskets, containers, etc. Tolerance for heat, wind, drought, and salt makes lantana a good choice for coastal gardens. Lantana camara is the only species grown indoors. It is usually kept trimmed to 1-2 ft. The flowering season lasts from spring to late summer. Blackish-purple berry is poisonous.