perennial

Pentas Sunstar Red

Pentas lanceolata 'Sunstar Red'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

24 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate once established

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial in suitable zones

Native To

Africa and Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Pentas lanceolata 'Sunstar Red' is a compact, woody-based perennial with clusters of star-shaped, vibrant red flowers and dark green, lance-shaped leaves, attracting pollinators throughout the warm months. This cultivar is prized for its bright, fiery red blooms that provide a striking contrast in gardens and containers, along with its excellent drought tolerance and long-lasting flowering period.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Bright red flowers attract pollinators and add vibrant color to gardens.

Drought tolerant and low water needs make it ideal for water-wise landscapes.

Supports bees and butterflies, enhancing local biodiversity.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or cuttings into well-draining soil in spring.
Water regularly until established, then reduce watering.
Place in full sun for best bloom production.
Fertilize monthly during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Pinch back young plants to encourage bushiness.
Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Ensure good drainage and full sun exposure for optimal growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply once a week during dry spells 💧
Fertilize monthly during active growth
Pinch back to promote bushiness

Don't

Overwater to prevent root rot ❌
Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings
Forget to prune after flowering

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Fertilize
Plant
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Bright flowering borderPollinator-friendly gardenDrought-tolerant landscape

Companion Plants

Lantana Salvia Verbena Gaillardia Coreopsis

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Pentas Sunstar Red questions

What zones can Pentas Sunstar Red grow in?

Pentas Sunstar Red is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Pentas Sunstar Red deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Pentas Sunstar Red, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Pentas Sunstar Red bloom?

Pentas Sunstar Red typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Pentas Sunstar Red need full sun?

Pentas Sunstar Red does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Pentas Sunstar Red drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Pentas Sunstar Red handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.