Lantana, New Gold
Scientific Name: Lantana x hybrida 'New Gold''
History/general species info: Well known in Mexico and nearly throughout Central America. The leaves are placed in hot water, which at first turns a dingy blackish color but later becomes dark blue. This solution is employed by laundresses for whitening clothes, in the same manner as indigo.
Characteristics: Perennial. Deer resistant. Bright yellow sterile flowers. Spreading habit. Use as a groundcover, in mass plantings and banks, in containers and baskets, or even as a hedge. Drought tolerant, heat loving, low maintenance perennial with a wealth of golden yellow flowers. A very versatile plant. Pollinator magnet.
Native: No
Flower: Yellow, blooms spring until frost
Planting / Care: Plant in well drained soil in the spring and water as needed during the first growing season, thereafter it is considered heat and drought tolerant. Prune in early spring as new growth begins to emerge.
Height: 4’
Spread: 4’
Light requirement: Sun. Part sun.
Wildlife: Hummingbirds, butterflies, bees. Good winter cover for small animals.
Links:
A&M Horticulture
https://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/archives/parsons/96promotions/newgold.html
https://texassuperstar.com/plants/lantanagold/lantana.html
Victoria Master Gardeners
http://vcmga.org/2003_Jul31.html
Photo credit: TAMU
