Coleus scutellarioides, Plectranthus scutellarioides, Solenostemon scutellarioides
Coleus (Coleus 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. Coleus plants are native to tropical regions of Asia and Africa and are sometimes called “Painted Nettle” or “Flame Nettle” due to their striking foliage.
Growth habit: Coleus plants have an upright, bushy growth habit. They are generally grown for their colorful foliage, which can be highly variable in terms of color, pattern, and texture. Some varieties may have a trailing or mounding growth habit, making them suitable for hanging baskets or as groundcovers.
Size: Coleus plants typically grow between 1-3 feet (30-90 cm) tall, depending on the specific cultivar. Some dwarf varieties may only reach 6-12 inches (15-30 cm) in height.
Foliage: Leaves come in various colors, including green, red, pink, purple, yellow, and orange, and can have different patterns, such as spots, splashes, or veins.
Flowers: Coleus produce small, tubular, and often insignificant flowers on spike-like inflorescences. In most cases, the flowers are not the main attraction, as the plants are primarily grown for their foliage. They typically bloom in late summer or early fall. However, many gardeners pinch off the flower spikes to encourage bushier growth and maintain the focus on the plant’s colorful foliage.
Hardiness: Coleus is a tender perennial and is generally hardy in USDA zones 10-11. In colder climates, they are grown as annuals or brought indoors for the winter.
Uses: Coleus plants are versatile and can be used in a variety of settings, including borders, flower beds, containers, and hanging baskets. They also work well as companion plants for other shade-loving species.
Coleus plants are known for their striking, colorful foliage, which makes them stand out in gardens, containers, and indoor settings. Here are some aspects that make them special:
Vibrant, diverse foliage: The most distinctive feature of coleus plants is their vibrant and diverse foliage. They come in a wide range of colors, including red, purple, pink, yellow, green, and orange, and often feature variegation or unique patterns like spots, splashes, or veins. This diversity in foliage color and patterns allows for endless combinations and interesting garden designs.
Easy to grow and propagate: They are relatively low-maintenance, making them an excellent choice for both experienced and beginner gardeners. They can adapt to various light conditions, from full sun to shade, depending on the cultivar. Coleus is also easy to propagate from stem cuttings, making it simple for gardeners to create new plants for their gardens or to share with friends.
Versatility in the garden: Coleus can be used in various garden settings, such as borders, flower beds, containers, and hanging baskets. They can be combined with other shade-loving plants as companion plants, creating beautiful and interesting displays. Coleus can also be grown as houseplants, bringing color and life to indoor spaces.
Season-long color: The plants provide long-lasting color throughout the growing season, as their appeal comes from their foliage rather than their flowers. This makes them an excellent choice for adding continuous color to your garden from spring through fall.
Attractive to pollinators: Although coleus flowers are often removed to promote bushier growth and maintain focus on the foliage if allowed to bloom, they can attract bees and other pollinators to the garden.
The combination of their vibrant, diverse foliage, ease of cultivation, and versatility in the garden makes coleus plants truly special and a popular choice for gardeners and landscapers alike.
| Hardiness |
10 - 11 |
|---|---|
| Plant Type | Annuals, Perennials |
| Genus | Solenostemon |
| Exposure | Partial Sun, Shade |
| Season of Interest |
Spring (Late) Summer (Early, Mid, Late) Fall |
| Height |
1' - 3' (30cm - 90cm) |
| Spread |
1' - 3' (30cm - 90cm) |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Water Needs | Average |
| Soil Type | Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand |
| Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
| Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained |
| Characteristics | Showy |
| Attracts | Bees, Butterflies |
| Landscaping Ideas | Patio And Containers, Beds And Borders, Hanging Baskets |
| Garden Styles | City and Courtyard, Informal and Cottage |
There are numerous varieties available, each with unique colors and patterns. While it’s difficult to list every type, here are some main groups and popular varieties within each group:
Large-leaved varieties:
Small-leaved varieties:
Sun-tolerant varieties:
Trailing or cascading varieties:
Upright varieties:
These are just a few examples of the many types available. With countless hybrids and cultivars, coleus offers a wide array of choices to suit any taste and garden condition.
Incorporating coleus into your garden design can add a splash of color and texture to any space. Here are some ideas:
Mixed borders: Plant alongside other shade-loving plants, such as hostas, ferns, heucheras, and caladiums, to create a visually appealing border with a mix of colors, textures, and foliage shapes.
Container gardens: Combine with other plants that have similar light and moisture requirements in containers or pots. You can create striking arrangements by mixing coleus varieties with different leaf colors and patterns or by pairing them with flowering plants like impatiens, begonias, or lobelias.
Mass plantings: For a bold and dramatic effect, plant a large group of coleus together, either using a single cultivar or mixing several varieties. This can create a stunning display of colorful foliage in your garden.
Focal points: Use coleus plants with particularly vibrant or unique foliage as focal points in your garden. Plant them in a prominent location where they can be easily seen and appreciated.
Groundcovers: Some trailing or low-growing varieties can be used as groundcovers in shaded areas, providing color and texture at ground level.
Vertical interest: Plant in hanging baskets or use them in vertical garden installations. This will add an extra dimension to your garden and showcase the plant’s beautiful foliage.
Edging: Use coleus plants to edge flower beds, pathways, or borders. Their colorful leaves can create a striking contrast with other plants or hardscape elements.
Transition plant: Coleus can serve as an effective transition plant between different areas of your garden or between sun and shade conditions. This can help create visual harmony and continuity in your garden design.
Indoor-outdoor connection: Since coleus can also be grown as houseplants, you can create an indoor-outdoor connection by using coleus in both your outdoor garden and indoor spaces. This can help to create a sense of unity and cohesion in your overall design.When designing your garden with coleus, consider factors such as light conditions, plant size, and complementary plants to create visually appealing and harmonious arrangements. Experiment with different color combinations, textures, and plant groupings to find the perfect design for your space.
When choosing companion plants for coleus, consider those that have similar light, water, and soil requirements. Here are some great companion plants:
Impatiens: With their colorful blooms and shade-loving nature, impatiens make a great companion for coleus in shaded areas.
Begonias: Like coleus, begonias offer a wide range of colors and patterns. They can thrive in the same conditions as coleus, making them an excellent choice for a combined display.
Caladiums: Caladiums, with their strikingly patterned leaves, can provide an interesting contrast to coleus in a shade garden.
Ferns: Ferns add a delicate texture to the garden and can help to soften the bold foliage of coleus.
Heuchera (Coral Bells): Heuchera is a shade-loving perennial that offers a variety of colorful foliage, making it an attractive partner for coleus.
Hostas: Hostas come in various shades of green and blue and can create a beautiful contrast when planted alongside coleus.
Fuchsia: The vibrant flowers of fuchsia plants can add an extra pop of color to a coleus-dominated arrangement.
Lobelia: Lobelia’s delicate flowers and mounding habit can complement the bold foliage of coleus.
Coleus plants are relatively easy to grow and maintain, but there are some tips that can help you keep them healthy and thriving:
Light: Coleus plants can adapt to various light conditions, from partial shade to full sun. However, they generally perform best in bright, indirect light or filtered sunlight. The specific light preference of your plant may depend on its cultivar and leaf coloration. Some varieties with deeper colors can tolerate more sun, while those with lighter colors may prefer more shade.
Soil: Coleus plants prefer well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH, ideally in the range of 6.0 to 7.0. If planting in containers, use a high-quality, well-draining potting mix. To improve soil conditions in the ground, amend the soil with organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure.
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry slightly between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can cause the leaves to wilt or drop. Coleus plants may require more frequent watering during hot or dry periods.
Fertilizing: Coleus plants appreciate regular fertilization during the growing season. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (such as 10-10-10 or 20-20-20) every 2-4 weeks, following the label instructions for the proper dosage. Alternatively, you can use a slow-release fertilizer at the beginning of the season.
Pinching and pruning: Pinch off the growing tips and flower spikes regularly to encourage bushier growth and maintain the plant’s focus on its colorful foliage. Regularly remove any damaged or discolored leaves to keep the plant looking its best.
Pests and diseases: Keep an eye out for common pests like aphids, spider mites, whiteflies, and mealybugs, and treat them promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil. To prevent fungal diseases like powdery mildew or root rot, ensure proper air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and maintain well-draining soil.
Overwintering: If you live in a region with frost or freezing temperatures, bring your coleus plants indoors for the winter. Place them in a bright location with filtered sunlight, and reduce watering and fertilizing during the winter months.
Propagation: Coleus plants can be easily propagated from stem cuttings. Take 4-6 inch (10-15 cm) cuttings in spring or summer and root them in a well-draining potting mix or water.
By following these tips and providing proper care, you can enjoy vibrant, healthy coleus plants in your garden or indoor spaces.
How fast does coleus grow?
Coleus plants have a relatively fast growth rate, especially during the warmer months of the growing season. You can expect a coleus plant to reach its mature size within a single growing season, which can range from 1-3 feet (30-90 cm) tall, depending on the specific cultivar. Some dwarf varieties may only reach 6-12 inches (15-30 cm) in height. The growth rate can be influenced by factors such as light, water, and fertilizer.
Is coleus easy to care for?
Yes, coleus plants are generally easy to care for, making them a popular choice for both beginner and experienced gardeners. They are relatively low-maintenance and can adapt to various light conditions, from partial shade to full sun, depending on the cultivar. Coleus plants require well-draining soil, consistent moisture, and occasional fertilization during the growing season. Regular pinching and pruning can help maintain a bushy growth habit and encourage more vibrant foliage.
Can coleus survive winter?
Coleus plants are tender perennials and are hardy in USDA zones 10-11, where they can survive mild winters. In colder climates with frost or freezing temperatures, coleus plants cannot survive outdoors during the winter. If you want to keep your coleus plants alive in colder regions, you have two options: treat them as annuals and replace them each year, or bring them indoors for the winter months. If you choose to bring them indoors, provide them with bright, filtered sunlight, and reduce watering and fertilizing during the winter months.
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| Hardiness |
10 - 11 |
|---|---|
| Plant Type | Annuals, Perennials |
| Genus | Solenostemon |
| Exposure | Partial Sun, Shade |
| Season of Interest |
Spring (Late) Summer (Early, Mid, Late) Fall |
| Height |
1' - 3' (30cm - 90cm) |
| Spread |
1' - 3' (30cm - 90cm) |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Water Needs | Average |
| Soil Type | Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand |
| Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
| Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained |
| Characteristics | Showy |
| Attracts | Bees, Butterflies |
| Landscaping Ideas | Patio And Containers, Beds And Borders, Hanging Baskets |
| Garden Styles | City and Courtyard, Informal and Cottage |
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Create a membership account to save your garden designs and to view them on any device.
Becoming a contributing member of Gardenia is easy and can be done in just a few minutes. If you provide us with your name, email address and the payment of a modest $25 annual membership fee, you will become a full member, enabling you to design and save up to 25 of your garden design ideas.
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