Pentas lanceolata (Forssk.) Deflers.
Frost-tender, erect or prostrate, woody-based, evergreen perennial with lance-shaped, hairy leaves, to 15cm long, and corymbs of long-tubed, pink, magenta, blue, lilac or white flowers, to 1.5cm across, from spring to autumn. To 2m. [RHSE, Hortus].
Horticultural & Botanical History
Introduced to Britain in 1842. ‘Our stoves have lately exhibited a fine flowering plant, under the name of Sipanea carnea, well worthy of general cultivation. Mr. Makoy of Liege, I believe, introduced it to England: at least, the Royal Botanic Garden of Kew is indebted for the possession of it to that liberal cultivator.’ [BM t.4086/1844, JD].
‘This desirable plant, though not of very recent introduction is deserving of especial notice. Its numerous trusses of delicate rose-coloured blossoms will be found very useful where cut flowers are much wanted.’ [Gard. Chron. 1853]. FC p.146/1844. MB p.125/1844. FS f.978/1855.
History at Camden Park
Listed only in the 1857 catalogue [T.739/1857]. Possibly obtained from James Backhouse, Kew Gardens or the London Horticultural Society. It was included among desiderata in a letter to Backhouse dated 10th April 1846 [MP A2933-1, p.136], to John Lindley on 15th February 1848 [MP A2933-1, p.157], and to Kew at about the same time [MP A2933-1, p.165] although not marked ‘arrived’ on Macarthur’s copies. It was requested again of Kew on 1st February, 1849 [MP A2933-1, p.177] and of Lindley again on 1st February, 1849 [MP A2933-1, p.182a].
Notes
Published Feb 08, 2010 - 02:47 PM | Last updated Feb 08, 2010 - 03:03 PM
Pentas lanceolata (Forssk.) Deflers. | BM t.4086/1844 | BHL
| Family | Rubiaceae |
|---|---|
| Category | |
| Region of origin | Yemen to tropical East Africa |
| Synonyms |
|
| Common Name | Egyptian star cluster, Star cluster |
| Name in the Camden Park Record | Pentas carnea |
| Confidence level | high |