Lower South
May 16, 2002
By Skip Richter,
Austin, TX
Web Finds
Kemper Center for Home Gardening Plant Finder
The Missouri Botannical's PlantFinder plant database
has info on over a thousand herbaceous perennials, shrubs, vines and trees. The database is searchable based on bloom time, special features (e.g. colorful fruit, winter interest, fragrant flowers), and other characteristics (plant size, bloom color, shade or sun, etc.) Plants are listed by scientific name and cross-referenced by common name. This site deserves a bookmark on your Web browser.
Favorite or New Plant
Pentas (Egyptian Star Cluster)
Pentas (a.k.a. Egyptian Star Clusters, Pentas lanceolata) are butterfly magnets. These annuals thrive in a part shade location where they tolerate our hot summers best. They prefer well-drained soil and moderate moisture levels. Few pests or diseases will bother them, and the butterflies will line up for a sip from their beautiful bloom clusters. They come in a number of colors and sizes. Provide them a little water to get them started and then set up a lawn chair and watch the fluttering show.
