Pentas lanceolata

Pentas can be grown as an herbaceous perennial in Zones 10 and 11, and as an annual in less temperate zones.  It can also be grown as a houseplant.  Its best flowering occurs in full sun, however, it will tolerate some shade.  In its growing zones, it will be covered year-round with 3" dense clusters of star-shaped flowers.  

It can be planted as a hedge or border plant.  If grown and trimmed to form a hedge, flowering will be diminished, as this plant flowers on new growth.

Popular bedding plant with moderate to high drought tolerance. This plant is seldom damaged by deer.  Hummingbirds are attracted to the red variety, their first choice in a garden.  

Insects, Diseases and Other Plant Problems:  Spider mites and aphids are insects that may affect this plant.  Caterpillars may chew on the foliage.