Lantana camara L., native to tropical America, now has spread to tropical and subtropical regions of the world. It has become a serious threat to the growth of native plants and is considered one of the most problematic invasive plants world-wide. Due to its ornamental value, it has been introduced into China in large quantities, and has developed into an invasive weed, causing serious harm to agriculture, animal husbandry and the environment. The invasion mechanism of L. camara has not yet been fully and systematically understood. This paper reviews the biological characteristics, invasion mechanisms, ecological impacts, prevention and management of L. camara, and summarizes the research progress, in order to provide a scientific basis for the control of L. camara. The key factor of L. camara invasion success is its unique combination of biological characteristics. The main reason for its damage to agriculture and forestry is allelopathic effects. The control methods of L. camara include physical, chemical and biological control methods. L. camara has been applied in pest control, pollution remediation and a a source of medicine. Further studies are needed about the adaptive mechanism in natural environment, application potential and additional control methods.