Pentas lanceolata
Star Clusters
Rubiaceae
Perennials
Woody-based perennial from tropical Africa. In Hawaii, it grows as large as 6 ft. tall, 3 ft.wide; elsewhere it reaches 2 to 3 ft. high and wide. Stems are topped by tight, 4-in.-wide clusters of small, star-shaped flowers in white, pink, lilac, or red. As a perennial, it provides nearly year-round color; as an annual, it blooms in summer. Good cut flowers. Green, somewhat hairy leaves are pointed ovals to 6 in. long. Prune plant heavily each year before spring growth begins to keep it compact and encourage flowering. Deadhead regularly for more blooms. Can be used as a houseplant; set in a bright west- or south-facing window.
Ricinus communis
Bold, striking plant from Africa, Asia. Grown as an annual in all zones. Can provide tall screen or le...
Cyperus prolifer
Flowers and long, thin leaves combine to make filmy brown and green clusters on slender stems about 1 ...
Cyperus papyrus
Tall, graceful, dark green stems 6–10 ft. high, topped with clusters of green threadlike parts t...
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