Lantana urticoides (Texas Lantana)

Native to the southwestern United States and Mexico, this small shrub grows about 3 to 5 feet tall. Its striking flower clusters combine yellow blooms with orange to red flowers, creating a changing multicolored display. Wild plants occur across much of Texas in diverse, relatively dry habitats, often on sandy ground. In Texas, its long flowering season can extend from late winter into autumn. The flowers attract butterflies and bees, and birds eat the fruits. It tolerates heat and drought. All parts are poisonous if eaten, and the leaves may irritate skin. Photographed in Colombia.