Perennial
Pentas
Pentas lanceolata
Varieties We Carry
WhitePentas lanceolataBeebright, RedPentas lanceolataBeebright, VioletPentas lanceolata
Sizes & Pricing
1 galFrom$6.95
3 galFrom$16.95
Fresh this week. Last restocked Jun 25.
LightFull Sun
WaterModerate
Mature size3-4 feet × 18-24 inches
About Pentas
Pentas (Pentas lanceolata) is a tropical perennial that blooms nearly year-round in zone 9b, producing dense clusters of star-shaped flowers in red, pink, white, and lavender. Ranked #1 among Florida nectar plants for butterfly visits (UF/IFAS), it is an outstanding pollinator plant for sunny beds and containers and is reliably perennial in Northeast Florida. Starting at $6.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter
- Flower Color
- White, Red, Pink
- Growth Rate
- Fast
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Soil
- Sandy, Loam, Well-drained
Best planting months
Recommended forZone 9b · St. Augustine, FL
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This monthGood windowOther months
Seasonal care
Bloom season. Good planting window.
Bloom season.
Bloom season. Ideal planting window.
Retains foliage through winter.
Care essentials
Light
Grows best in full sun with at least 6 hours of direct light daily; tolerates light shade with slightly reduced bloom. Full sun produces the most prolific flowering and most vigorous growth.
Water
Keep soil evenly moist during establishment, then water deeply once a week during dry spells. Avoid overwatering and never wet foliage — water at the base to prevent fungal issues.
Soil & Fertilizer
Tolerates a wide range of well-drained soils, including Florida's sandy soils. Fertilize regularly during the growing season with a balanced slow-release fertilizer to sustain continuous bloom. Deadhead spent flower clusters to encourage reblooming.
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Common questions
Is Pentas a good plant for St. Augustine?
Pentas is a perennial for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 3-4 feet × 18-24 inches.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed February 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.