Lantana is a commonly cultivated shrub native from southernmost Texas to Central America. Ornamental flower clusters are produced throughout the summer and are a favorite of butterflies and other nectar-feeding insects, such as this Snowberry Clearwing (Hemaris diffinis). Flower color is normally yellow, but many different cultivated varieties have been developed with different colors. This cultivar has flowers that change color from yellow to pink as they age.

Harnett Co., NC 8/18/05.

In North Carolina Lantana is usually killed by frost, but certain cultivars (such as the sterile 'Miss Huff') are hardy.

Chapel Hill, NC 7/9/05.

It is a very rare escape from cultivation in NC, but a serious pest in Hawaii, Australia, and other tropical regions around the world.

Chapel Hill, NC 8/15/05.