Alphabetical Plant Listing

Coleus: How to Grow and Care with Success

Coleus scutellarioides, Plectranthus scutellarioides, Solenostemon scutellarioides


What is Coleus?

Coleus (Plectranthus scutellarioides, formerly known as Solenostemon scutellarioides) is a popular ornamental plant prized for its stunning, colorful foliage. It belongs to the Lamiaceae family, which also includes plants like mint, basil, and sage.

Growth Habit: Coleus is upright and bushy, with plants typically reaching a size of 1 to 3 feet (30-90 cm) in height and 1 to 2 feet (30-60 cm) in width, depending on the variety. The plants have a rapid growth rate, making them a quick way to add color to a garden or indoor space

Foliage: The foliage is the main attraction, showcasing vibrant hues and intricate patterns in shades of green, red, pink, purple, yellow, and orange. Leaves can be broadly or finely serrated, and some varieties feature ruffled or lobed edges.

Flowers: Coleus plants produce small, tubular flowers on tall spikes during their blooming season, which usually occurs from summer to early fall. However, the flowers are often considered insignificant compared to their striking foliage, and many gardeners pinch off the flower spikes to encourage more leaf growth.

Hardiness: As a tender perennial, coleus is hardy in USDA zones 10 to 11, but it is usually grown as an annual in cooler climates. In tropical regions, it can be grown year-round.

Uses: Coleus is a versatile plant and can be used as a bedding plant, in containers or hanging baskets, or as a houseplant, adding a splash of color to any setting.

With hundreds of varieties available, coleus offers a diverse range of colors and patterns, ensuring there's a perfect match for every gardener's preference.

Guide Information

Hardiness 10 - 11
Plant Type Annuals, Perennials
Plant Family Solenostemon - Coleus
Exposure Partial Sun, Shade
Season of Interest Spring (Late)
Summer (Early,Mid,Late)
Fall
Water Needs Average
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained
Characteristics Showy
Attracts Bees, Butterflies
Landscaping Ideas Beds and Borders, Patio and Containers
Garden Styles City and Courtyard, Informal and Cottage
Compare All Solenostemon - Coleus Great Plant Combination Ideas with Solenostemon - Coleus Guides with Solenostemon - Coleus

Poetra.RH, Shutterstock

While every effort has been made to describe these plants accurately, please keep in mind that height, bloom time, and color may differ in various climates. The description of these plants has been written based on numerous outside resources.

Guide Information

Hardiness 10 - 11
Plant Type Annuals, Perennials
Plant Family Solenostemon - Coleus
Exposure Partial Sun, Shade
Season of Interest Spring (Late)
Summer (Early,Mid,Late)
Fall
Water Needs Average
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained
Characteristics Showy
Attracts Bees, Butterflies
Landscaping Ideas Beds and Borders, Patio and Containers
Garden Styles City and Courtyard, Informal and Cottage
Compare All Solenostemon - Coleus Great Plant Combination Ideas with Solenostemon - Coleus Guides with Solenostemon - Coleus

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