Lantana, a genus of tropical shrubs and herbs, is known for its showy heads of small, bright, and often multicolored flowers, attracting pollinators like butterflies and hummingbirds. 

Here's a more detailed description of lantana:

Botanical Characteristics:

Genus: Lantana. 

Family: Verbenaceae (verbena family). 

Native to: Tropical America and Africa. 

Common names: Shrub verbena, common lantana. 

Growth Habit: Lantana can be an erect, sprawling, or scrambling shrub, often forming dense thickets. 

Stems: Square or quadrangular, sometimes with small prickles or spines. 

Leaves: Opposite, ovate, and simple, with a strong odor when crushed. 

Flowers: Small, tubular-shaped flowers in clusters (umbels). 

Flower Colors: Come in a variety of colors, including red, yellow, orange, pink, and white, which can change as they mature. 

Fruits: Round, green fruits that turn purplish-black. 

Size: Can grow to 2-4 meters (6-13 feet) tall, but some species can reach up to 6 meters (20 feet). 

Ecological and Cultural Significance:

Invasive Species:

Some lantana species, like Lantana camara, are considered invasive in certain regions, forming dense thickets and displacing native vegetation. 

Ornamental Plants:

Lantana is widely used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes for its colorful flowers and continuous blooming. 

Pollinator Attractant:

The flowers are attractive to various pollinators, including butterflies, hummingbirds, and other insects. 

Traditional Uses:

Some traditional cultures have used lantana for medicinal purposes, with claims of treating various ailments. 

Cultivars:

Many cultivars and hybrids are available, including dwarf and trailing varieties. 

Other species:

Lantana montevidensis is a trailing species with rose-lavender flowers, often used as a groundcover.