Lantana vs Parasol Tree Plant Comparison
Compare these two plants side by side — care needs, key differences, and which is right for your home.
Lantana
Lantana camara
Lantana camara is a sprawling shrub typically grown outdoors, known for its clusters of small, brightly colored flowers that bloom almost continuously in warm weather. The flower colors can vary within the same cluster, often displaying shades of yellow, orange, red, pink, and white. It is a vigorous grower and can become quite large if not pruned. While prized for its vibrant blooms and ability to attract pollinators, it is considered invasive in many regions due to its rapid spread and adaptability. It is primarily an outdoor plant and struggles indoors due to high light requirements.
Parasol Tree
Heptapleurum actinophyllum (syn. Schefflera actinophylla)
The Parasol Tree, or Umbrella Tree, is a fast-growing evergreen tree or shrub known for its distinctive palmate leaves that resemble an umbrella. In its native habitat, it can reach heights of up to 50 feet. It features multiple leaflets radiating from a central point, creating a visually striking effect. While primarily an outdoor plant, it is sometimes grown indoors as a houseplant, though it requires significant space and bright light to thrive. People grow it for its lush, tropical appearance and architectural form.
Quick Plant Comparison
| Feature | Lantana | Parasol Tree |
|---|---|---|
| Light | Full sun (at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily) | Bright, indirect light to full sun. Requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight for optimal growth. |
| Watering | Every 2-5 days outdoors depending on weather; less frequent indoors if attempted | Every 7-14 days, depending on environmental conditions and pot size. |
| Humidity | 30-50% | 40-60% |
| Temperature | 18-30°C | 18-24°C |
| Care Level | Expert | Expert |
| Growth Rate | Fast | Fast |
| Max Height | 0.3-0.6m (indoors, unlikely to thrive), 0.6-2m (outdoors) | 2-3 meters (indoors, if conditions are ideal) |
| Pet Safety | ❌ Toxic To Pets | ❌ Toxic To Pets |
| Soil | Well-draining potting mix or garden soil | Well-draining potting mix, such as a blend of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite. |
| Beginner Friendly | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Weekly Maintenance | 15-30 minutes weekly (including watering, pruning, and pest control) | 30 minutes weekly |
🔬 Botanical Information — Comparing These Plants
Lantana
| Scientific Name | Lantana camara |
|---|---|
| Family | Verbenaceae |
| Native To | Tropical regions of the Americas and Africa |
| Also Known As | Lantana, Shrub Verbena, Yellow Sage, Red Sage |
| Leaves | The leaves are ovate to lance-shaped, about 2-5 cm long, with a rough, textured surface. They are typically dark green and have a strong, pungent odor when crushed. The leaf margins are serrated. |
| Flowers | Lantana produces clusters of small, tubular flowers in a variety of colors, including yellow, orange, red, pink, and white. The flowers bloom almost continuously in warm weather. It is unlikely to flower indoors without very intense light. |
Parasol Tree
| Scientific Name | Heptapleurum actinophyllum (syn. Schefflera actinophylla) |
|---|---|
| Family | Araliaceae |
| Native To | Australia, New Guinea, Java |
| Also Known As | Umbrella Tree, Octopus Tree, Amate |
| Leaves | The leaves are palmate, meaning they have multiple leaflets radiating from a central point, resembling an umbrella. The leaflets are typically glossy green, oblong to lance-shaped, and can be up to 20 cm long. New growth may have a reddish tint. |
| Flowers | Rarely flowers indoors. When it does flower outdoors, it produces long, drooping racemes of small, red flowers. |
📏 Size & Growth — Plant Comparison
Lantana
Parasol Tree
🌱 Propagation — Comparing Plant Growth
Lantana
Methods: Stem cuttings, Seed
Difficulty: Easy
Tips: Take stem cuttings in spring or summer. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant in moist potting mix. Keep the soil consistently moist until roots develop. Seeds can be sown in spring after soaking them in water for 24 hours.
Parasol Tree
Methods: Stem cuttings, Air layering, Seed
Difficulty: Moderate
Tips: Take stem cuttings in spring or summer. Use rooting hormone and provide warmth and humidity. Air layering is also effective for larger plants.
✨ Benefits & Features — Comparing Plant Value
Lantana
Lantana's flowers change color as they mature, creating a multi-colored effect within the same flower cluster. It is also known for its ability to attract a wide variety of pollinators, making it a valuable addition to any garden. Its drought tolerance makes it suitable for xeriscaping.
- ✓ Attracts pollinators, enhancing garden biodiversity.
- ✓ Provides vibrant colors to the landscape.
- ✓ Drought-tolerant, reducing water consumption.
- ✓ Long blooming season, offering extended visual appeal.
- ✓ Can be used in containers or as a ground cover.
- ⚠️ Toxic to pets
Parasol Tree
The palmate leaves that resemble an umbrella are the most distinctive feature. Its rapid growth rate and potential to become a large tree set it apart from many other houseplants.
- ✓ Adds a tropical aesthetic to your home.
- ✓ Can improve indoor air quality (though not a significant air purifier).
- ✓ Provides a sense of connection to nature.
- ✓ Can be a rewarding challenge for experienced plant owners.
- ✓ Offers a unique architectural element to indoor spaces.
- 🌬️ NASA-verified air purifier
- ⚠️ Toxic to pets
📅 Maintenance Schedule — Plant Care Comparison
Lantana
Parasol Tree
🌞 Light Requirements
Lantana
Full sun (at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily)
Low light tolerant: ❌ No
Parasol Tree
Bright, indirect light to full sun. Requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight for optimal growth.
Low light tolerant: ❌ No
💧 Watering Needs
Lantana
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Signs of underwatering include wilting leaves and dry soil. Signs of overwatering include yellowing leaves and soggy soil.
Parasol Tree
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry. Allow excess water to drain away. Overwatering can lead to root rot, indicated by yellowing leaves and a musty smell. Underwatering results in drooping leaves and dry, crispy edges.
🌡️ Temperature & Humidity
Lantana
Temperature: 18-30°C
Humidity: 30-50%
Parasol Tree
Temperature: 18-24°C
Humidity: 40-60%
🤔 Which Plant Is Right For You?
Lantana
Lantana camaraGardeners in warm climates looking for a vibrant, pollinator-attracting shrub for outdoor landscapes.
✅ Choose This Plant If...
- You want to attract butterflies and hummingbirds to your garden.
- You live in a warm climate with plenty of sunshine.
- You are looking for a drought-tolerant plant.
- You want a long-blooming plant with vibrant colors.
- You are experienced with managing potentially invasive species.
❌ Skip This Plant If...
- You have pets or small children who might ingest the plant.
- You live in a region where Lantana is considered an invasive species.
- You do not have a sunny outdoor space.
- You are looking for a low-maintenance indoor plant.
Parasol Tree
Heptapleurum actinophyllum (syn. Schefflera actinophylla)Experienced plant enthusiasts with bright, spacious indoor environments or those living in warm climates suitable for outdoor cultivation.
✅ Choose This Plant If...
- You want a statement plant with a tropical look.
- You have a very bright, sunny indoor space.
- You enjoy regular pruning and shaping of plants.
- You live in a warm climate where it can be grown outdoors.
- You are an experienced plant owner looking for a challenge.
❌ Skip This Plant If...
- You have pets that might ingest the plant.
- You have limited space or low light conditions.
- You are a beginner plant owner.
- You dislike frequent pruning.
- You are sensitive to potential allergens (though not a common allergen).
🎯 Quick Verdict
⚡ Key Differences Between These Plants
Both plants have similar basic care requirements but differ in appearance and specific needs. Compare plants carefully to find the best fit for your space.
💡 Pro Tips For Comparing These Plants
Lantana Care Tips
Lantana is primarily an outdoor plant that requires full sun and well-draining soil. It is difficult to grow indoors due to its high light requirements. It is toxic to pets, requiring caution. Regular pruning is necessary to control its growth. Indoor attempts often fail due to insufficient light.
- Provide at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
- Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
- Fertilize regularly during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Prune regularly to maintain shape and encourage blooming.
- Monitor for pests and diseases, and treat promptly.
Parasol Tree Care Tips
The Parasol Tree is challenging to grow indoors due to its high light requirements and potential for rapid growth. It needs ample space, bright light, and careful watering to thrive. Regular pruning is necessary to maintain its shape and size. Susceptible to pests.
- Provide ample bright light to prevent leggy growth.
- Water thoroughly but allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
- Fertilize regularly during the growing season.
- Prune regularly to maintain shape and size.
- Monitor for pests and treat promptly.
⚠️ Common Problems & Solutions — Plant Care Comparison
Lantana
Parasol Tree
❓ Frequently Asked Questions — Comparing These Plants
Lantana
What are the light requirements for Lantana?
Lantana requires abundant sunlight to thrive and produce its characteristic vibrant blooms. Ideally, it should receive at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Insufficient light can result in leggy growth, reduced flowering, and dull foliage. When grown indoors, place Lantana near a south-facing window where it can receive maximum light exposure. If natural light is limited, supplement with artificial grow lights. Rotate the plant regularly to ensure even light distribution and prevent it from leaning towards the light source. In outdoor settings, choose a location that is fully exposed to the sun for most of the day. Avoid planting Lantana in shady areas or under trees, as this will hinder its growth and flowering potential.
How do I care for Lantana?
Lantana thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry, allowing excess water to drain away. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Fertilize monthly during the growing season (spring-fall) with a balanced fertilizer formulated for flowering plants, following package instructions. Prune regularly to encourage bushier growth and more abundant blooms, removing spent flowers and any dead or diseased branches. Lantana prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Provide good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases. Protect from frost in colder climates, either by bringing potted plants indoors or covering them with frost blankets. Monitor for pests such as aphids and whiteflies, and treat promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
How do I propagate Lantana?
Lantana can be easily propagated through stem cuttings. Take a 4-6 inch cutting from a healthy stem, removing the lower leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and place the cutting in a warm, bright location. Roots should develop within a few weeks. Division is possible for established plants. Carefully dig up the plant and separate the root ball into smaller sections, each with healthy roots and stems. Replant the divisions in separate pots or in the ground. Keiki propagation is not applicable to Lantana.
Parasol Tree
What are the light requirements for Parasol Tree?
Parasol Trees thrive in bright, indirect light. While they can tolerate lower light conditions, they will grow best and maintain their vibrant color with ample light exposure. Avoid placing the plant in direct sunlight, especially during the hottest part of the day, as this can scorch the leaves. An east-facing window is often ideal, providing gentle morning sun. A north-facing window may also work, but the plant might not grow as quickly. If you don’t have a suitable window, you can supplement with artificial grow lights. Rotate the plant regularly to ensure even light exposure on all sides. Insufficient light can lead to leggy growth and faded leaf color.
How do I care for Parasol Tree?
Provide your Parasol Tree with bright, indirect light; direct sunlight can scorch its leaves. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry, ensuring proper drainage to prevent root rot. Maintain a stable temperature between 65-75°F (18-24°C) and avoid sudden temperature fluctuations. Fertilize monthly during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Repot every 1-2 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound, using a well-draining potting mix. Prune regularly to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Wipe leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust and pests. Monitor for common pests like spider mites and mealybugs, treating promptly if detected. Provide adequate humidity, especially during dry winter months, by misting regularly or using a humidifier. Rotate the plant periodically to ensure even growth on all sides. Avoid overwatering, which is a common cause of problems.
How do I propagate Parasol Tree?
Parasol Trees can be propagated through stem cuttings or air layering. For stem cuttings, take a 4-6 inch cutting from a healthy stem, removing the lower leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and provide warmth and humidity. Roots should develop in a few weeks. For air layering, make a small cut on a stem, wrap it with moist sphagnum moss, and cover it with plastic wrap. Secure the plastic wrap with tape. Once roots develop, cut the stem below the roots and pot the new plant. Spring and summer are the best times for propagation. Ensure the cutting or air layer receives bright, indirect light. Maintain stable conditions during the rooting process.
Last updated: April 18, 2026 — Plant care data reviewed and verified by our editorial team.