When you think of summer annuals, pentas may not be the first plant that comes to mind. But maybe it's just that you aren't familiar with this beauty. See five reasons it's at the top of our shopping list.

1. The Flowers Attract Pollinators 
If you love to see colorful butterflies and hummingbirds flitting through your garden be sure to put pentas on your planting list. These brightly colored annuals produce a non stop supply of flat-topped, nectar-rich flowers throughout the summer.

2. Pentas Are Versatile 
Given plenty of sunlight, pentas will grow almost anywhere. They thrive in containers as well as in-ground beds and borders. Plus, they only grow 12 to 15 inches tall so you can squeeze them into any tight spot. 

3. Love Color? They Bloom in Vibrant Hues
It's not hard to spot pentas in a mixed border. That's because the blooms of these vigorous plants come in a vibrant selection of red, white, rose, lavender or pink that almost seem to pop out of the garden. 

4. They Are Heat- and Drought-Resistant
Pentas are as tough as they are pretty and maintain their good looks even when temperature soar or when rainfall is scarce. Although they do prefer a regular drink, they can easily go without if you forget to pull out the watering can.

5. Deer and Rabbit Pass Pentas By 
If deer or rabbits are a problem in your neighborhood, you won't have to worry about your pentas disappearing. It seems that most furry marauders will pass right by pentas without taking a second look (or bite).

 

Written by Doug Jimerson