Egyptian Starcluster
Pentas lanceolata 'Sunstar Rose'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
20 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Moderate to high
Lifespan
Tender perennial, typically grown as an annual
Native To
Eastern Africa, Yemen
Toxicity
Non-toxic to pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Pentas lanceolata, commonly known as Egyptian starcluster, is a tropical woody-based perennial or subshrub. It features five-petaled, star-shaped flowers in dense, rounded terminal clusters (corymbs) and lance-shaped, dark green leaves. It is valued for its long bloom season and for attracting pollinators. A member of the Sunstar series, 'Sunstar Rose' is prized for its exceptionally large, dense clusters of vibrant rose-pink flowers. It exhibits excellent heat tolerance, a vigorous, well-branched habit, and continuous blooming from spring until frost, attracting numerous butterflies and hummingbirds.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a sunny location with well-draining soil.
- Tuck seeds or young plants into the soil, spacing 12 inches apart.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote rooting.
- Water consistently during the growing season, especially in dry periods.
- Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer monthly for best blooms.
- Prune lightly after flowering to encourage bushiness.
Pro Tip
Ensure good drainage and full sun for vibrant blooms.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly but avoid overwatering 🌱
- Prune to shape and encourage new growth ✂️
- Fertilize monthly during the growing season
- Deadhead spent flowers to promote continuous blooming
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Do not fertilize in late fall or winter
- Avoid planting in deep shade
- Do not ignore pests
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Harvest | ||||||||||||
| Pinch | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Egyptian Starcluster questions
What zones can Egyptian Starcluster grow in?
Egyptian Starcluster is hardy in USDA Zone 10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Egyptian Starcluster deer resistant?
Yes — Egyptian Starcluster is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Egyptian Starcluster bloom?
Egyptian Starcluster typically blooms in late spring to first frost through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Egyptian Starcluster need full sun?
Egyptian Starcluster does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Pentas to compare
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Egyptian Starcluster with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
