Pentas purpurea is a tender perennial native to tropical Africa, producing clusters of star-shaped purple flowers. It thrives in warm climates and can be grown as an annu
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for best flowering. Can tolerate some shade, but flowering may be reduced.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-24°C. Protect from frost; bring indoors if temperatures drop below 10°C.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Do not fertilize in winter.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|
None reported
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water Pentas purpurea regularly, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Ensure good drainage. During hot weather or active growth, water more frequently.
Reduce watering in cooler months when growth slows.
Pinch back young Pentas purpurea plants to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote continuous blooming.
Prune lightly in late winter or early spring to shape the plant and remove any dead or damaged stems. Avoid heavy pruning.
Propagate Pentas purpurea from stem cuttings taken in spring or summer. Use a rooting hormone to improve success rates. Plant cuttings in a well-draining potting mix and keep them in a warm, humid environment.
Roots typically form within a few weeks. Transplant once established.
Repot Pentas purpurea every 1-2 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Repot in the spring before the active growing season begins. Water lightly after repotting.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Pentas Purpurea (Pentas purpurea)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Pentas |
| Species | Pentas purpurea |
Similar in genus Pentas
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
