Buttonsage (Lantana involucrata)

Also known as: Buttonsage, Wild Sage

Lantana involucrata, often referred to as buttonsage, belongs to the verbena family. This flowering plant thrives in the American tropics and is commonly found in well-drained regions. Additionally, it can be seen on the Galapagos Islands and in Bermuda.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Buttonsage

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

30 cm to 91 cm

Spread

0.5 to 1.5 meters

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

1 to 2 cm

Flower Color

Purple, White, occasionally Pink

Images of Buttonsage

Quickly Identify Buttonsage

Identify this plant by its small, ovate leaves with toothed margins and its clusters of tubular flowers that can be purple, white, or occasionally pink.

Scientific Classification of Buttonsage

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Lamiales

Family

Verbena

Genus

Shrub verbenas

Species

Buttonsage

Planting and Growing of Buttonsage

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 3 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

65-85℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Buttonsage?

For Lantana involucrata, it is recommended to water approximately 500 milliliters each time. The goal is to thoroughly moisten the root zone but ensure that there's no standing water left. Wait until the top inch of soil dries out before the next watering.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Buttonsage? ›

What should I do if my Buttonsage is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Buttonsage? ›

How to save an overwatered Buttonsage? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Buttonsage?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours

Lantana involucrata thrives under full sun conditions, benefiting from sustained exposure. The ideal light fosters vigorous growth, vibrant blooms, and robust foliage, enhancing its ornamental and ecological value.

What is the ideal light condition for Lantana involucrata? ›

How can I ensure ideal lighting for Lantana involucrata? ›

What are the benefits of providing Lantana involucrata with ideal lighting? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Buttonsage?

Ideal Temperature: 65 ~ 85℉

The ideal temperature range for cultivating Lantana involucrata is between 65°F to 85°F. These temperatures offer the optimal conditions for growth and ensure the plant maintains its vibrant, healthy appearance. Within this range, Lantana involucrata can successfully complete its growth cycles and maximize its ornamental value.

What Soil is Best for Buttonsage?

Soil type: Sandy soil, Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Lantana involucrata thrives in well-drained soil, which prevents root rot and ensures healthy growth. Excellent drainage allows the roots to breathe and absorb nutrients effectively. This plant benefits from a soil that provides a balanced range of nutrients. A nutrient-rich environment supports vibrant foliage and abundant flowering, crucial for an attractive garden display. Incorporating moderate organic matter into the soil enriches its texture and fertility. It helps retain moisture without waterlogging and introduces beneficial microorganisms for healthier plant development.

How to Fertilize Buttonsage?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

When fertilizing Lantana involucrata, apply a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. For mature plants, use about 250ml of the solution per application. Avoid excessive amounts to prevent root damage.

How to Prune Buttonsage?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Lantana plants can cause skin irritation for some people due to their slightly thorny stems. It’s prudent to wear gloves and long sleeves to protect your skin from potential irritation during pruning. Be mindful not to remove more than one-third of the plant at once. Over-pruning can stress the plant, reduce flowering, and slow its recovery. Always aim to prune progressively and gently. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Buttonsage plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early summer

Harvest seeds from mature Lantana involucrata fruits, ensuring they are healthy and disease-free. Clean them carefully by removing any pulp and dry them before sowing, which enhances germination rates.

Select a healthy, non-flowering stem from the parent plant. Cut a section about 4-6 inches long with at least two nodes, removing the lower leaves to reduce water loss.

Plant the seeds or cuttings in a well-draining medium. For seeds, cover lightly with soil, and for cuttings, insert the cut end into the medium ensuring it is stable yet not too deep to prevent rot.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Buttonsage plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Repot your Lantana involucrata when you notice roots growing out of the drainage holes or when the plant's growth has noticeably slowed. Other signs include water pooling on the surface without soaking in and the soil looking compacted. These are indicators that it's time to move your plant to a new home.

Choose a pot that's about 2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. Ensure it has good drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, as Lantana involucrata prefers not to sit in overly wet conditions. This helps promote healthy root growth and avoids root rot, which is a common problem with improper pot selection.

Opt for a well-draining potting mix that contains sand, perlite, or pumice. This type of soil prevents water from stagnating and provides the aeration roots need to thrive. Proper soil choice supports vigorous growth and helps maintain the plant's vibrant health.

Toxicity

Ingestion of plant parts

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.