My plant is almost 2 feet (60 cm) tall and wide, which is on the upper end of the spectrum quoted for this variety. Mine receives partial shade but the species can handle full sun. However, it can't handle freezing temperatures and is best suited to USDA zones 10a-11. Although it can tolerate dry conditions, as my plant has, the stress may make it prone to infestations of spider mites.
The flowers attract butterflies and hummingbirds. I dead-head it regularly to keep the flowers coming. It produces blooms almost year-round.
The flowers also do very well in a vase.
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| Vase containing Penta lanceolata, photographed in late October 2013 |
Pentas lanceolata 'Kaleidoscope Appleblossom' is my pick as my favorite plant this week. Please visit Loree at danger garden to view her choice as this week's favorite plant.
All material © 2012-2014 by Kris Peterson for Late to the Garden Party
That's a pretty one! It reminds me of a large Hoya and the pink shade of the blooms somehow reminds me of sweets :)
ReplyDeleteThe flower shape is similar to the Hoya, although their textures are very different.
DeleteGreat choice, such a pretty flower!
ReplyDeleteIt is pretty! I wish I could find more of the same variety.
DeleteYou pointed out the obvious -- not all Pentas are equally strong growers.
ReplyDeleteEvery color is a favorite here. They are root hardy some winters. I take cuttings just in case. There's a trick to growing from seed. I don't know what it is. A seedling planted itself in the greenhouse floor.
I wish I could find some equally resilient varieties - in any color. I'll try taking cuttings when the weather cools.
DeleteThose flowers look wonderfully fragrant, are they?
ReplyDeleteSadly, no - at least none that I can detect.
DeleteIt must be hard with the long drought and heat, but your savings you show looks so nice out and filled with wonderful exciting plants.
ReplyDeleteGood that there are beautiful and hardy plants, understand that it is difficult to resist buying new ones, have the same problem.
Hug
Mariana
Yes, I need to focus on Mediterranean and Australian plants and let go of the notion of creating an English-style garden here, Mariana.
DeleteI love the starry flowers of Pentas. This one is a real beauty, I can see why you love it. The arrangement is stunning.
ReplyDeleteI have tried growing it from seed without success, but of course it won' t do outdoors here.
I was surprised to find it was so cold sensitive, Chloris.
DeletePentas are annual here but one of my favorites. They attract butterflies like crazy! Yours is gorgeous, and I love the bouquet. You always have the prettiest bouquets!
ReplyDeleteThis one is by far my favorite. I'd hoped to find more this summer but haven't come across it. I have to try taking cuttings, as Jean suggested above.
DeleteI love pentas, too. They grow as annuals here and do well with our summer heat. Your plant really looks fabulous - so lush and healthy. Your bouquet is a beauty. They always are! :o)
ReplyDeleteThanks Tammy!
DeleteWhat a lovely plant, the blooms are so pretty. Your arrangement in the vase is gorgeous!
ReplyDeleteI love this Pentas, Paula, and wish I could find more.
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