Pentas, Egyptian Star Cluster, Star Flower 'New Look Violet'

Grown from seed and they are doing nicely in a partially shady spot. Flush of rain seems to have stunted their growth, but the sun has b...Read Moreeen out the past couple days and they are doing OK. High germination rate w/ Park Seed.

San Antonio, TX
These dwarf pentas with dark green leaves have been blooming all summer and have not skipped a beat even in 108 de...Read Moregree weather planted next to the curb with even higher tempertures radiating from the street's asphalt. The only other plants that have survived in this area in the summer have been purslane, moss rose and zinnias. Several are planted where they receive morning sun and afternoon shade and they are performing equally well, but are not as tall. Not bearing nectar, they do NOT attract butterflies nor bees unfortunately. This is the first year I have grown them so I do not know if they will come back from the roots in the spring as do my other pentas.

Be sure not to over water. They do not like wet feet. Feed monthly with a 6-6-6, 8-8-8 or similar garden fertilizer following label instructions. Rabbit manure mixed in the soil at planting time works wonders. Grasshoppers tend to be a problem. Dust with Sevin Dust at the first appearance of leaves being eaten or you will be sorry you did not do so. The plant will rebound after the leaves have been eaten, however.

I am very glad that I tried these out and recommend them as a low border or container plant.

October 23, 2004 I heavily mulched these in the winter.and they did return in the spring of 2003 from the roots. They are still providing beautiful blooms as of today.