How to Grow Egyptian Star Flower
Pentas lanceolata
Pentas thrives in full sun and heat, producing clusters of star-shaped flowers in red, pink, white, or lavender all season long. Start seeds indoors 10-12 weeks before last frost, or buy transplants. Plant out only after all frost risk has passed and soil is warm. Space 30 cm apart in fertile, well-drained soil. Water regularly but avoid waterlogging. Feed every 2 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Deadhead spent blooms to keep flowering going. In temperate climates, treat as a tender annual and clear after the first frost.
When to Start
Start seeds indoors 10 weeks before your last frost date. Transplant outdoors once night temperatures stay above 12°C and soil has warmed to at least 16°C.
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Growth Stages
Approximate days from start
Care Essentials
- Feed every 2 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer from planting through flowering.
- Pentas is a heat-loving, frost-tender plant that thrives in full sun and warm conditions. An outstanding pollinator plant, it attracts butterflies and hummingbirds throughout the season. Grow as an annual in temperate climates; can be overwintered indoors in frost-prone areas.
Growing Conditions
- Min. soil temperature
- 16°C+
- Germination temperature
- 20–26°C
- Sow indoors
- —
- Transplant out
- —
- First harvest
- —
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Spacing & Planting
| Plant spacing | 30 cm |
| Row spacing | 35 cm |
| Sow depth | 0 cm |
| Mature height | 45 cm |
| Mature spread | 35 cm |
Growing Conditions
| Min. soil temperature | 16°C |
| Germination temperature | 20–26°C |
| Base growth temperature | 12°C |
| Photoperiod sensitivity | day neutral |
Frequently Asked Questions
- How far apart should I plant Egyptian Star Flower?
- Plant Egyptian Star Flower 30cm apart with 35cm between rows.
- When does Egyptian Star Flower flower?
- Egyptian Star Flower typically flowers approximately 75 days after transplanting.
- Is Egyptian Star Flower frost hardy?
- Egyptian Star Flower is classified as Tender.
