The Smelly Reason You May Not Want This Gorgeous Flower In
The Garden
By LAUREN KRYSTAF
Although lantana sports stunning color-changing flowers and is easy to grow and maintain, it also comes with a putrid scent often compared to a mix of gasoline and fermented fruit.
Native to tropical parts of the Americas, lantana’s become a mainstay in gardens. Unfortunately, its unpleasant smell isn't its only downside — it's also toxic to people and pets.
Some species, particularly common lantana (Lantana camara), can be invasive in many regions, including Hawaii, Florida, and Texas. Still, gardeners keep planting it for its beauty.