Heat and humidity are pentas' native language — these shrubby annuals thrive when everything else slows down, blooming steadily through our hottest months without complaint. They'll fill a bed, soften a corner, or anchor a container with dense branching and nonstop color.

Sun to part shade, average soil, and occasional water are all they ask. Pinch them back early if you want bushier plants, or let them sprawl. Hummingbirds and butterflies find them irresistible.