This species, also known as Egyptian star cluster, originates in countries from East Africa to Yemen. It is an attractive and unusual, soft-wooded shrub with 4 in. (10 cm) long, hairy, lance-shaped leaves. The flowers are borne m 4 in. (10 cm) clusters, each individual, tabular bloom opening out in a 5-pointed star shape, measuring ½ in, (1 cm) across, usually in fall and winter, but also at other times. The flowers can be in shades of magenta, red, mauve, pink, or white, according to the variety.

Size: Height 18 in. (45 cm).

Light: Direct sunlight.

Temperature: Normal room temperature; minimum 50°F (10°C).

Moisture: Keep moist throughout the year, apart from a 6—8 week period immediately after flowering, when only enough water should be applied to prevent the soil mix from drying out severely.

Feeding: Give standard liquid fertilizer once a month all year, except during the res period.

Propagation: Take 3—4 in. (7—10 cm) tip cuttings from non-flowering shoots m spring or summer.

Special needs: Pinch out the shoot tips on a regular basis to produce a bushy plant.