Coleus scutellarioides
Coleus is a perennial herbaceous plant highly popular for its striking foliage color display. Its opposite, oval, and toothed leaves have a velvety texture. The most notable feature is the infinite variety of leaf colors and patterns, ranging from deep purples to electric greens.
Belonging to the Lamiaceae family, it is native to Southeast Asia to Australia. In temperate climates, it's grown as an indoor plant or an annual, as it cannot tolerate frost. In its natural habitat, it can grow quite large, but it is kept manageable in pots through regular pruning.
Its cultivation is rewarding for beginners as it clearly communicates its needs. Leaves wilt dramatically when thirsty and recover quickly. The small bluish flowers are usually removed to encourage the plant to focus energy on maintaining its vibrant foliage.
Frequent, keep soil moist but not waterlogged (2-3 times/week).
Very bright indirect light; avoid strong direct sun.
Between 18°C and 25°C. Sensitive to extreme cold and frost.
Fertile universal potting mix with good drainage (add perlite).
Leaf plant fertilizer every 15 days in spring and summer.
Have this plant? Analyze it free with Florami
Free AI analysis
