What is the scientific name and family of the plant commonly known as common lantana?

The plant commonly known as common lantana has the scientific name *Lantana camara*. It belongs to the verbena family, Verbenaceae.

Where is Lantana camara native to, and how has its distribution changed?

Lantana camara is native to the American tropics. It has since spread from its native range to approximately 50 countries worldwide, becoming an invasive species in many of these new locations.

What are the general physical characteristics of Lantana camara?

Lantana camara is a perennial shrub that can grow in an erect, sprawling, or scandent manner. It typically reaches about 2 meters (6.5 feet) in height but can scramble up trees to a height of 6 meters (20 feet) under favorable conditions.

Describe the leaves of Lantana camara.

The leaves of Lantana camara are broadly ovate, arranged oppositely on the stem, and are simple. When crushed, they emit a strong, distinctive odor.

What are the characteristics of Lantana camara flowers?

Lantana camara produces small, tubular-shaped flowers, each with four petals, arranged in clusters at the ends of stems. The flowers come in various colors, including red, yellow, white, pink, and orange, with their color often changing as they mature or after pollination.

How does the flower color of Lantana camara change, and what is the purpose of this change?

After pollination, the flowers of Lantana camara typically change color, often from yellow to shades of orange, pink, or red. This color transformation is thought to serve as a signal to pollinators, indicating that the flower offers a reward and is reproductively viable, thus improving pollination efficiency.

What is the scent of Lantana camara flowers described as?

The flowers of Lantana camara are described as having a tutti frutti smell with a peppery undertone.

What is the appearance and nature of Lantana camara fruit?

The fruit of Lantana camara is a berry-like drupe that matures from green to a dark purple color. The unripe green fruits are inedible and can cause serious damage to the digestive tract due to hard spikes on their rind.

How does Lantana camara reproduce?

Lantana camara reproduces through both seeds and vegetative means. A single plant can produce up to 12,000 fruits annually, contributing to its widespread propagation.

What are the five major flower color varieties of Lantana camara found in Australia?

The five major flower color varieties of Lantana camara in Australia are Pink, White, Pink-edged Red, Red, and Orange, each with specific colorations for buds, newly opened flowers, and older flowers.

What is the conservation status of Lantana camara according to NatureServe?

According to NatureServe, Lantana camara is classified as 'Secure'.

What are some of the common names for Lantana camara in different regions?

Lantana camara is known by various common names globally, including 'Florida Flower' in some areas, Cariaquillo in Puerto Rico, Visepo in Zambia, Spanish flag, big-sage in Malaysia, Putush in West Bengal, Kongini in Kerala, Ghaneri in Maharashtra, wild-sage, red-sage, white-sage in the Caribbean, korsu wiri or korsoe wiwiri in Suriname, mũkigĩ in Kenya, tickberry in South Africa, Kashi Kothan in the Maldives, West Indian lantana, umbelanterna, Gu Phool in Assam, Thirei in Manipur, and Banfada in Nepal.

What is the origin of the genus name Lantana?

The genus name *Lantana* is derived from the Latin name for the wayfaring tree, *Viburnum lantana*, because the flowers of *Lantana* closely resemble those of *Viburnum lantana*.

From where did Lantana camara spread to other continents?

Lantana camara spread from its native range in the American tropics. It was introduced to Europe by Dutch explorers and subsequently spread to Asia and Oceania, among other regions.

In what types of ecosystems can Lantana camara be found?

Lantana camara is highly adaptable and can inhabit a wide variety of ecosystems. It is commonly found in agricultural areas, forest margins and gaps, riparian zones, grasslands, secondary forests, and beach fronts.

What environmental conditions can Lantana camara tolerate?

Lantana camara demonstrates tolerance to a wide range of climatic conditions, including drought, various soil types, heat, humidity, and salt. It is also relatively tolerant to fire.

How does Lantana camara impact biodiversity?

Lantana camara can outcompete native plant species, leading to a reduction in biodiversity. It forms dense thickets that can suppress the growth of other plants, including essential pasture grasses and crops.

What are the agricultural problems caused by Lantana camara?

Lantana camara poses agricultural problems due to its toxicity to livestock and its ability to form dense thickets. These thickets reduce farmland productivity by suppressing pastures and crops, and can also make harvesting more difficult.

Why is Lantana camara considered a problematic invasive species?

Lantana camara is considered a problematic invasive species because it can outcompete native plants, reduce biodiversity, form dense thickets, and is toxic to livestock. It is listed in the IUCN's 'List of the world's 100 worst invasive species'.

How does Lantana camara affect forest regeneration?

The dense thickets formed by Lantana camara can significantly hinder forest regeneration by preventing the growth of new trees, thereby slowing down the natural recovery processes of forest ecosystems.

What impact can Lantana camara have on fire patterns in ecosystems?

Although Lantana camara is fire-tolerant, it can alter fire patterns by increasing the fuel load. This buildup of fuel can lead to more intense fires that may spread into forest canopies, causing greater destruction, particularly in dry, arid regions.

What are the secondary ecological impacts of Lantana camara infestations?

In Africa, secondary impacts of Lantana camara infestations include providing shelter for disease vectors like mosquitoes that transmit malaria and tsetse flies, which are known carriers of trypanosomiasis.

What are the primary factors that have enabled Lantana camara to become a successful invasive species?

The primary factors contributing to Lantana camara's invasive success include wide dispersal by animals, resistance to grazing due to toxicity, tolerance to various environmental conditions, preference for disturbed habitats, historical hybridization leading to adaptability, production of allelopathic chemicals, and high seed production.

What are the different approaches to managing and controlling Lantana camara?

Management and control strategies for Lantana camara include biological control using insects or other agents, mechanical methods like physical removal or fire treatment, and chemical control using herbicides. Long-term management also involves reducing activities that create degraded habitats.

Have biological control programs been successful in controlling Lantana camara?

Despite the implementation of numerous biocontrol agents across various regions, biological control programs for Lantana camara have not been largely successful. This is likely due to the plant's extensive hybrid forms and high genetic diversity, which make it difficult for control agents to target effectively.

Describe the mechanical methods used for Lantana camara control.

Mechanical control involves physically removing Lantana camara plants by digging out their roots, which can be effective but is labor-intensive and costly. It is typically most suitable for small infestations or early stages. Fire treatment followed by revegetation with native species is another mechanical approach.

What are the challenges associated with chemical control of Lantana camara?

Chemical control using herbicides is effective but expensive, which limits its application in many poorer countries where Lantana camara is prevalent. While mowing followed by herbicide application is effective, it may have significant environmental consequences.

What is known about the toxicity of Lantana camara to livestock?

Lantana camara is toxic to various livestock, including cattle, sheep, horses, dogs, and goats. The toxicity stems from pentacyclic triterpenoids called Lantadenes, which can cause liver damage and photosensitivity in grazing animals.

What are the reported effects of Lantana camara ingestion on humans?

The toxicity of Lantana camara to humans is not definitively established, but some sources suggest that ingesting unripe fruits can be toxic. Other reports indicate that consuming the flowers, fruits, and leaves may cause vomiting, diarrhea, breathing difficulties, and liver failure, and contact with the leaves can cause dermatitis. Some studies, however, suggest ripe berries are edible.

What medicinal properties have been identified in Lantana camara leaves?

Studies have indicated that Lantana camara leaves possess antimicrobial, fungicidal, and insecticidal properties. They have also been utilized in traditional medicine for various ailments.

For which medicinal purposes has Lantana camara been traditionally used?

In traditional herbal medicine, Lantana camara has been used to treat a range of conditions, including cancer, skin itches, leprosy, chickenpox, measles, asthma, and ulcers. Extracts have also shown potential in reducing gastric ulcer development in rats.

Why has Lantana camara become a popular ornamental plant?

Lantana camara is popular as an ornamental plant due to its ability to withstand drought for extended periods and its relative resistance to pests and diseases. It also attracts butterflies and birds, making it suitable for butterfly gardens.

How is Lantana camara cultivated as an ornamental in cooler climates?

In regions with cooler climates, Lantana camara is often cultivated indoors or in conservatories. It can also thrive in gardens if provided with adequate shelter.

What role does Lantana camara play as a host plant for insects?

Lantana camara serves as a host plant for various insects, particularly butterflies that feed on its nectar. For example, the large Homerus Swallowtail butterfly opportunistically feeds on its flowers. Additionally, the jumping spider *Evarcha culicivora* uses these plants for courtship and consumes their nectar.

What is the scientific classification of Lantana camara from Kingdom to Species?

The scientific classification of Lantana camara is: Kingdom: Plantae; Clade: Tracheophytes; Clade: Angiosperms; Clade: Eudicots; Clade: Asterids; Order: Lamiales; Family: Verbenaceae; Genus: *Lantana*; Species: *Lantana camara*.

What is the significance of the common name 'Spanish flag' for Lantana camara?

The common name 'Spanish flag' is one of many names used for Lantana camara, particularly in the Caribbean, likely referring to the vibrant, multi-colored appearance of its flowers which can resemble the colors of a flag.

How does Lantana camara's tolerance to environmental conditions contribute to its invasiveness?

Lantana camara's ability to tolerate a wide range of conditions, including drought, varied soil types, heat, humidity, and salt, allows it to establish and thrive in diverse environments where other plants might struggle, facilitating its spread as an invasive species.

What is the impact of Lantana camara on native vegetation structure?

Lantana camara can significantly alter native vegetation structure by forming dense thickets that suppress the growth and regeneration of native plant species, thereby reducing overall biodiversity.

What is the etymological origin of the species name 'camara'?

The species name *camara* is derived from an indigenous Brazilian name used for this plant and several other related species.

How did Lantana camara become established in Sri Lanka?

Lantana camara became a significant weed in Sri Lanka after it escaped cultivation from the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya in 1926.

What is the role of Lantana camara in altering fuel loads in ecosystems?

Lantana camara can change fire patterns by altering fuel loads. Its dense growth can lead to a buildup of flammable material, increasing the risk and intensity of fires, especially in dry environments.

What is the significance of Lantana camara's toxicity in its invasive success?

Lantana camara's toxicity to herbivores makes it less likely to be eaten by animals. This reduced predation pressure allows the plant to establish and spread more effectively, contributing to its success as an invasive species.

What are the allelopathic effects of Lantana camara?

Lantana camara excretes allelopathic chemicals that can inhibit the germination and root elongation of surrounding plants, giving it a competitive advantage in its environment.

What is the documented impact of Lantana camara invasion on natural areas in India?

A national-level monitoring in India in 2023 found that Lantana camara has invaded approximately 50% of the country's natural areas, highlighting its significant impact on the Indian ecosystem.

How does Lantana camara's preference for disturbed habitats contribute to its spread?

Lantana camara thrives in disturbed habitats, such as areas cleared for agriculture, logged forests, or sites affected by wildfires. The increase in such disturbances globally provides more opportunities for the plant to establish and proliferate.

What is the historical context of Lantana camara's introduction to Europe?

Lantana camara was introduced to Europe from the New World by Dutch explorers centuries ago, where it was initially cultivated as an ornamental plant before spreading globally.

What is the typical height Lantana camara can reach when forming dense thickets?

Lantana camara typically grows to about 2 meters (6.5 feet) tall, but when it forms dense thickets, especially in disturbed areas or along forest edges, it can reach heights of up to 6 meters (20 feet) by scrambling up trees.

What are the potential impacts of Lantana camara on native fauna?

While Lantana camara is known to attract pollinators like butterflies and birds, its dense thickets can also provide shelter for disease vectors such as mosquitoes and tsetse flies. Its invasive nature can also indirectly impact fauna by reducing the availability of native food sources and habitats.

Lantana Camara Wiki: Lantana Camara: An Ecological Profile of a Global Invader

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Overview

Botanical Identity

Lantana camara, commonly known as common lantana or sometimes "Florida Flower," is a species within the verbena family (Verbenaceae). Originating from the American tropics, it is recognized for its adaptability and widespread distribution across diverse ecosystems.

Global Presence

This highly adaptable species has naturalized in approximately 60 countries worldwide, extending its range far beyond its native Americas. Its introduction into Europe by Dutch explorers facilitated its rapid spread across Asia and Oceania, establishing it as a significant invasive species in many regions.

Invasive Status

Lantana camara is classified as one of the world's worst invasive species by the IUCN. It readily colonizes disturbed habitats, outcompetes native flora, reduces biodiversity, and can negatively impact agricultural productivity by forming dense, impenetrable thickets.

Morphological Description

Habit and Growth

Lantana camara typically presents as a perennial shrub, characterized by its erect, sprawling, or scandent growth habit. It commonly reaches heights of up to 2 meters (approximately 6.5 feet), but under favorable conditions, it can scramble into trees, attaining heights of up to 6 meters (20 feet).

Foliage and Fragrance

The leaves are broadly ovate, arranged oppositely along the stems, and are simple in structure. A notable characteristic is their strong, pungent odor when crushed, which serves as a deterrent to some herbivores.

Floral Characteristics

The plant produces small, tubular flowers with four petals, arranged in terminal clusters. Flower colors vary significantly due to extensive selective breeding, encompassing shades of red, yellow, white, pink, and orange. A unique feature is the color change post-pollination, typically from yellow to reddish hues, believed to signal pollinators about nectar availability and reproductive viability, thereby enhancing pollination efficiency.

Fruit and Reproduction

The fruit is a berry-like drupe that matures from green to a dark purple. Unripe fruits are toxic. Each plant can produce a substantial number of fruits, contributing to its reproductive success. Both seed dispersal and vegetative reproduction are key mechanisms for its propagation.

Taxonomic Classification & Nomenclature

Scientific Classification

The species belongs to the Kingdom Plantae, Division Tracheophytes, Class Angiosperms, Order Lamiales, Family Verbenaceae, and Genus Lantana. Its scientific name is Lantana camara L.

Common Names and Etymology

Lantana camara is known by numerous common names globally, reflecting its widespread distribution and cultural integration. Examples include "Cariaquillo" (Puerto Rico), "Spanish flag," "tickberry" (South Africa), and "wild-sage." The genus name Lantana originates from the Latin name for the wayfaring tree (Viburnum lantana), due to floral similarities. The specific epithet camara derives from an indigenous Brazilian term for the plant.

Common names include:

Cariaquillo (Puerto Rico)
Visepo (Zambia)
Spanish flag
Big-sage (Malaysia)
Putush (West Bengal)
Kongini (Kerala)
Ghaneri (Maharashtra)
Wild-sage, Red-sage, White-sage (Caribbean)
Korsu wiri / Korsoe wiwiri (Suriname)
Mùkigì (Kenya)
Tickberry (South Africa)
Kashi Kothan (Maldives)
West Indian lantana
Umbellanterna
Gu Phool (Assam)
Thirei (Manipur)
Banfada (Nepal)

Cultivars and Hybrids

Extensive selective breeding since the 17th and 18th centuries has resulted in numerous cultivars. Furthermore, hybridization between different species and varieties has enhanced L. camara's adaptability to novel environments, contributing to its invasive success.

Global Distribution and Habitat

Native Range and Spread

Native to Central and South America, Lantana camara has naturalized in approximately 60 countries. Its introduction to Europe marked the beginning of its global expansion, reaching Africa, Asia, Oceania, and numerous islands. It is found in regions between 45°N and 45°S latitude, typically below 1,400 meters (4,600 feet) in altitude.

Preferred Habitats

This species thrives in a variety of environments, including agricultural areas, forest margins, riparian zones, grasslands, secondary forests, and beach fronts. It demonstrates a strong preference for disturbed habitats, such as logged forests or areas cleared for agriculture, and is less tolerant of deep shade, limiting its establishment in intact primary forests.

Environmental Tolerance

L. camara exhibits remarkable resilience, tolerating drought, diverse soil types, heat, humidity, and salinity. It is also relatively fire-tolerant, allowing it to rapidly colonize areas affected by wildfires, further contributing to its invasive potential.

Ecological Interactions

Seed Dispersal

Birds and other animals consume the fruits of L. camara, playing a crucial role in dispersing its seeds over extensive geographical areas. This interaction is a primary factor in its rapid spread.

Fire Ecology

While L. camara itself is resistant to fire, its presence can alter fire dynamics within ecosystems. It contributes to fuel load buildup, potentially increasing the risk and intensity of fires, particularly in arid regions, leading to significant ecosystem damage.

Interactions with Fauna

The nectar of L. camara attracts various pollinators, including butterflies like the endangered Homerus Swallowtail. Certain species, such as the crab spider and the jumping spider Evarcha culicivora, utilize the plant for hunting or as a courtship location. In Africa, its dense thickets provide shelter for disease vectors like mosquitoes (malaria) and tsetse flies.

Invasive Species Impact

Global Threat Ranking

Recognized globally as a significant invasive weed, Lantana camara is listed among the "world's 100 worst invasive species." Its proliferation poses a substantial threat to native ecosystems and biodiversity worldwide.

Ecological Ramifications

Invasion by L. camara leads to a reduction in native biodiversity as it outcompetes indigenous plant species. It can impede forest regeneration by forming dense understories, and its allelopathic chemicals inhibit the germination and growth of surrounding vegetation.

Agricultural and Economic Impacts

In agricultural landscapes, L. camara forms dense thickets that suppress pasture grasses and crops, thereby reducing land productivity and complicating harvesting operations. Its invasive nature significantly impacts land management practices and economic outputs in affected regions.

Factors Contributing to Success

Several factors underpin L. camara's invasive success: efficient seed dispersal by fauna, inherent toxicity deterring herbivores, broad tolerance to environmental conditions, preference for disturbed habitats created by human activities, genetic diversity facilitating adaptation, production of growth-inhibiting chemicals, and extremely high seed production rates.

Management and Control Strategies

Biological Control

Despite extensive efforts, biological control programs utilizing various insects and agents have yielded limited success. The high genetic diversity and numerous hybrid forms of L. camara present challenges for targeted control agents. Recent studies in India show some promise with specific tingid bugs.

Mechanical Control

Physical removal of plants, including digging out roots, can be effective, particularly for small infestations or early-stage invasions. However, this method is labor-intensive and costly. Controlled burning followed by revegetation with native species is another mechanical approach.

Chemical Control

Herbicides offer an effective means of managing L. camara, though cost can be prohibitive in resource-limited regions. Application often involves mowing followed by herbicide spraying, but potential environmental consequences must be carefully considered.

Prevention and Ecosystem Health

Long-term management necessitates reducing habitat-disturbing activities. Maintaining healthy, functioning ecosystems is paramount to preventing the establishment and spread of invasive species like L. camara.

Toxicity Profile

Livestock Toxicity

Lantana camara is recognized as toxic to various livestock, including cattle, sheep, horses, dogs, and goats. The primary toxic compounds are pentacyclic triterpenoids known as Lantadenes, which can induce liver damage and photosensitivity in affected animals.

Human Toxicity

The toxicity of L. camara to humans is subject to some debate. While unripe fruits are considered toxic, and ingestion of flowers, fruits, or leaves may cause gastrointestinal distress, difficulty breathing, or liver damage, some sources suggest ripe berries are edible. Contact with leaves can cause dermatitis.

Allelopathic Effects

Beyond direct toxicity, L. camara releases allelopathic chemicals into the soil. These compounds inhibit the germination and root elongation of nearby plants, contributing to its competitive advantage and impact on native flora.

Applications and Uses

Medicinal Properties

Traditional herbal medicine utilizes Lantana camara for various ailments, including skin conditions, respiratory issues, and infections. Scientific studies suggest leaves possess antimicrobial, fungicidal, and insecticidal properties. Extracts have shown potential in reducing gastric ulcer development in animal models.

Ornamental Value

Valued for its vibrant, long-lasting flowers and resilience, L. camara is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant. Its ability to attract butterflies and birds makes it a popular choice for gardens. It can be grown indoors or in sheltered outdoor conditions in cooler climates.

Material Uses

Historically, the stalks of Lantana camara have been utilized in the construction of furniture, such as chairs and tables, showcasing its utility beyond ornamental and medicinal applications.

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References

Lantana Rod Ensbey, Regional Weed Control Coordinator, Grafton. September 2008.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Lantana camara Wikipedia page

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Important Notice

This educational resource was generated by an AI, drawing upon publicly available data. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and comprehensiveness based on the provided source material, it may not be entirely exhaustive or up-to-date. The content is intended for informational and academic purposes.

This is not professional botanical or ecological advice. The information presented here should not substitute consultation with qualified experts. Always refer to official scientific literature and consult with specialists for specific applications or concerns related to Lantana camara.

The creators of this page are not liable for any errors, omissions, or actions taken based on the information provided.

Lantana Camara

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Overview ℹ️

🌿 Botanical Identity

🌍 Global Presence

⚠️ Invasive Status

Morphological Description 🌸

🌳 Habit and Growth

🍃 Foliage and Fragrance

🌈 Floral Characteristics

🍇 Fruit and Reproduction

Taxonomic Classification & Nomenclature 🏷️

📚 Scientific Classification

🗣️ Common Names and Etymology

🧬 Cultivars and Hybrids

Global Distribution and Habitat 🗺️

📍 Native Range and Spread

🏡 Preferred Habitats

🌡️ Environmental Tolerance

Ecological Interactions 🦋

🐦 Seed Dispersal

🔥 Fire Ecology

🕷️ Interactions with Fauna

Invasive Species Impact 💥

🏆 Global Threat Ranking

📉 Ecological Ramifications

🚜 Agricultural and Economic Impacts

📈 Factors Contributing to Success

Management and Control Strategies 🛠️

🔬 Biological Control

💪 Mechanical Control

🧪 Chemical Control

🌳 Prevention and Ecosystem Health

Toxicity Profile ☠️

🐄 Livestock Toxicity

🧑 Human Toxicity

🌱 Allelopathic Effects

Applications and Uses 💡

💊 Medicinal Properties

🖼️ Ornamental Value

🛋️ Material Uses

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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References

📜 References

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Overview

Botanical Identity

Global Presence

Invasive Status

Morphological Description

Habit and Growth

Foliage and Fragrance

Floral Characteristics

Fruit and Reproduction

Taxonomic Classification & Nomenclature

Scientific Classification

Common Names and Etymology

Cultivars and Hybrids

Global Distribution and Habitat

Native Range and Spread

Preferred Habitats

Environmental Tolerance

Ecological Interactions

Seed Dispersal

Fire Ecology

Interactions with Fauna

Invasive Species Impact

Global Threat Ranking

Ecological Ramifications

Agricultural and Economic Impacts

Factors Contributing to Success

Management and Control Strategies

Biological Control

Mechanical Control

Chemical Control

Prevention and Ecosystem Health

Toxicity Profile

Livestock Toxicity

Human Toxicity

Allelopathic Effects

Applications and Uses

Medicinal Properties

Ornamental Value

Material Uses

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice