Texas Tech University

Pentas, Egyptian Star Flower

Pentas lanceolata
Perennials

(Detailed plant information can be found at the bottom of the page.)
Pentas lanceolata

Pentas lanceolata Photo Gallery



Pentas lanceolata Plant Information

Classification  
   
Scientific Name: Pentas lanceolata
Common Name: pentas

Egyptian star flower
Family: Rubiaceae
Suggested Uses: perennial treated as an annual

beds & borders, container plantings
   
Characteristics  
   
Plant Form: upright
Height: 2 - 3 feet
Spread: 1 - 2 feet
Foliage: opposite, ovate foliage
Flower: white, pink, red, and purple flowers in terminal corymbs with 5-6 petals
Bloom Period: Spring, Summer, Fall
   
Environment  
   
Sun: light shade

good for full sun to partial shade when supplemental irrigation is available
Water: low water requirement
Soil: prefers well-drained, fertile soil
Heat Tolerance: high heat tolerance

low cold tolerance
USDA Zone: zones 9 - 11
Native Range: Africa
   
Care  
   
Maintenance: requires frequent pinching to promote branching

tolerates shearing

propagation by seed
Pests & Pathology: susceptible to aphids
Wildlife: attracts butterflies

TTU Plant Resources