Pseuderanthemum laxiflorum (Shooting Star)

Botanical name: Pseuderanthemum laxiflorum

Common names: Shooting Star, Star Flower, Furple False Erantheum, Dazzler

Origin: Tropics

Grown best in full sun, partial shade or semi-shade, the Pseuderanthemum laxiflorum thrives in well-drained soil and regular water to keep soil evenly moist. This small, upright shrub can reach a height of between 2-5 ft and produces intense pink flowers that will attract butterflies and hummingbirds. The evergreen foliage is a pleasant dark green and the flowers are about 1-inch across.

It's also a great seaside plant and can tolerate salt spray, making it a good choice for coastal gardens. This plant is native to the tropics, but a mature plant can be cold hardy to at least mid-20sF for a short time. However, if temperatures are expected to dip this low, it's best to keep the plant in a pot and bring it indoors during extreme weather.

To look its best, the Pseuderanthemum laxiflorum should be given regular fertilizer and should be pruned back to control its shape and size. This will promote new growth and keep the shrub looking neat and well-groomed. With proper care and attention, this beautiful plant brightens up any garden and adds a touch of color.