Family Rubiaceae Genus Pentas (PEN-tass) Species lanceolata (lan-see-oh-LAY-tuh) Cultivars Many Vibrant Varieties Available Also Known As Star Flower, Star Cluster
Category Annuals, Tropicals & Tender Perennials Height 2-3 ft. Spacing 2-3 ft. Sun Exposure Full Sun-Full Shade Bloom Color Red, Pink White, Lavender, Magenta Bloom Time Blooms all year Foliage Evergreen, Velvet-Fuzzy-Textured
Hardiness Zone 9a to 20 F Zone 9b to 25 F
Soil pH Requirements 5.6 to 6.0 (acidic) 6.1 to 6.5 (mildly acidic)
Water Requirements Average water needs
Pruning Instructions Trim if desired to keep from getting leggy
Propagation Methods From soft wood cuttings From seed; sow indoors before last frost
Seed collecting Allow seed heads to dry on plant; remove and collect seeds Seed does not store well, sow as soon as possible
Other Details Attractive to bees, butterflies, and birds Suitable for growing in containers Not cold hardy - suitable for containers and hanging baskets - winterize well in temps above 45 degrees F
Freezing Temps by Year: 2009-2010 Year: Freezing temps 12/09 & 01/10 * moderate winter 2010-2011 Year: Freezing temps 01/11 & 02/11 * moderate winter 2011/2012 Year: Freezing temps 12/11 & 01/12 * mild winter 2012/2013 Year: Freezing temps 12/12 & 01/13 * very mild winter
