Egyptian starcluster - Pentas lanceolata (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Egyptian starcluster

Also known as: Star cluster

Egyptian starcluster (Pentas lanceolata) is a flowering plant native to Africa and Yemen. Egyptian starcluster is cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens where it attracts butterflies.

Scientific classification

Species

Egyptian starcluster (Pentas lanceolata)

Gentians, dogbanes, madders, and allies

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Perennial, Annual, Biennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

Summer, Early fall

Harvest Time

30 cm to 1.8 m

Plant Height

60 cm to 1.8 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

10 cm

Flower Size

Green

Fruit Color

White, Pink, Red, Purple, Blue, Lavender, Mauve

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Non-dormant

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer, Fall

Growth Season

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Egyptian starcluster

Distribution of Egyptian starcluster

Distribution Map

Egyptian starcluster is native to parts of Africa and Asia. It also grows as an introduced species in Columbia and some Pacific Islands. This flowering plant inhabits areas with low or moderate rainfall, especially woodlands, grasslands, and scrublands. It is a commonly grown ornamental plant and is popular in butterfly gardens.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

Discover plant distribution and habitat

Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.

Download the App for Free

Habitat

Butterfly gardens

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Egyptian starcluster (Pentas lanceolata) is named and popular for its delicate and abundant clusters of star-shaped flowers. These flowers are reliable attractors of bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. This warm-weather plant is ideal for adding to the beds and borders of Mediterranean gardens, and it also grows well in containers and patios. Good companion plants include verbena, lantana, and portulaca

Symbolism

Love, chastity, protection, freedom

Interesting Facts

There are dozens of selected cultivars within the species of Pentas lanceolata. Some of the most popular cultivars are ‘Butterfly’, 'Graffiti', 'Kaleidoscope Appleblossom', and 'Northern Lights'. All these cultivars attract not only butterflies but many other pollinators such as bees and hummingbirds.

Name Story

Egyptian starcluster: Penta plants are flowering plants from tropical regions. It is called Egyptian starcluster because of the five-pointed petals on the flowers.

Get quick plant knowledge with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant identification and learn about its name, symbolism, interesting facts, uses, and more.

Download the App for Free

Quickly Identify Egyptian starcluster

Clusters of star-shaped blooms, 3 inches (7.62 cm) wide, in vibrant colors.

Lance-shaped leaves, 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) long, with textured surface and fine hairs.

Single-stemmed, green stem with fine hairs, 0.2 to 0.4 inches (0.5 to 1 cm) thick.

Branching near top creates flower clusters, attracting butterflies and hummingbirds.

Adaptable to various environments, ideal for year-round displays in full sun.

Identify plants with a snap

Instantly identify plants with AI: Snap a photo, and get accurate results within seconds.

Download the App for Free

Care Guide for Egyptian starcluster

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Potting Mix, Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Egyptian starcluster thrives in tropical regions, requiring consistent moisture and high humidity. Weekly watering promotes lush growth, and it can endure short dry spells. Preferring warm climates, egyptian starcluster benefits from outdoor humidity, which enhances its blooming during the growing season.

Fertilize: Egyptian starcluster requires fertilization every 4-6 weeks with a high-phosphorus fertilizer during its growing season, using half the recommended strength. Water egyptian starcluster before feeding, and reduce fertilization in fall and winter. Gloves are recommended for safety, ensuring vibrant blooms and strong growth.

Pruning: Egyptian starcluster features vibrant, star-shaped flowers and prefers tropical climates. Prune in early spring to late winter for bushier growth, remove dead stems, and cut long shoots to enhance flowering and improve air circulation, reducing disease risk and boosting ornamental appeal.

Propagation: Egyptian starcluster is a tropical evergreen perennial known for its star-shaped flowers. Propagate using non-flowering tip cuttings placed in moist, well-draining soil under indirect light. A rooting hormone and humid conditions can enhance growth, helping cultivate vibrant new plants.

Repotting: Repot egyptian starcluster every 2-3 years in spring to support its bushy growth, using a container 1-2 inches larger in diameter. After repotting, provide bright indirect light and consistent moisture to encourage recovery, vibrant growth, and flowering.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free

Images of Egyptian starcluster

Distribution of Egyptian starcluster

Culture

Quickly Identify Egyptian starcluster

Care Guide for Egyptian starcluster

PEOPLE ALSO ASK

Common Pests & Diseases