Lantana camara 'Ham and Eggs'

Lantana Ham and Eggs is a half-hardy perennial that can be either annual or perennial, depending on winter severity. It will die back to the ground when the temperature dips to about 28 ºF (-2.2 ºC) but will grow back from the roots in zones 7b or warmer in spring. It may be slow to break dormancy but will grow quickly once the soil temperature warms. They can be pruned to within 6 inches after the last frost.

The Ham and Eggs inflorescence contains many deep pink flowers (ham) surrounding a center of bright yellow flowers (eggs). The new florets may start almost entirely yellow or cream, but the color deepens as the flower matures. The color changes to pink in the outside ring, which becomes darker with age and spreads toward the center. The Ham and Eggs cultivar does not develop as many berries as other lantana cultivars. This is an advantage as the berries are toxic to many animals but also makes this plant relatively sterile. However, it is easily propagated by softwood cuttings, and with more effort, by dividing the very woody root ball.

Leaves can cause minor skin irritation to some people and are poisonous if eaten. It is toxic to livestock such as cattle, sheep, horses, and goats.

VIDEO Created by Elisabeth Meyer for "Annuals, Perennials, Vines, and Groundcovers" a plant identification course offered in partnership with Longwood Gardens. 

More information on Lantana camara.