Coleus
Plectranthus scutellarioides
Coleus has 200+ named cultivars with combinations of red, lime, burgundy, copper, and chartreuse on a single leaf — making it the most pattern-diverse foliage plant in the bedding-plant industry, and 90% of those patterns trace to selective breeding done in the 1990s.
How to care for coleus
Pinch off flower spikes as they appear — coleus is grown for foliage, and flowering triggers decline. Take 4-inch cuttings in late summer; they root in water within 10 days for indoor winter color.
Garden uses & design ideas
Best garden use
Use it where you want fast seasonal color in containers, walkway edges, or gaps between slower permanent plants.
Pair it with
Begonia, Impatiens, Caladium make easy companion choices because they share similar light, water, or visual texture needs.
Layout tip
Match it with part sun exposure, place it in a moderate-water bed where soil can stay evenly damp but not soggy, and check USDA zones 10-11 (annual in most zones; can overwinter as cutting) before planting. Use the garden planner to test spacing around its mature size: 12-36 in tall and wide.
Gardener note — Double-check local invasive, edible, and toxicity guidance with your county extension office before planting around pets, children, or natural areas.
Companion plants
Coleus grows well alongside these — similar light, water, and texture needs.
Common pests & problems
Where it grows best
Native to Southeast Asia; thrives in USDA hardiness zones 10-11 (annual in most zones; can overwinter as cutting).
Frequently asked about coleus
What USDA zones does Coleus grow in?+
Coleus is hardy in USDA zones 10-11 (annual in most zones; can overwinter as cutting). Outside these zones, it can usually be grown indoors or as a seasonal annual.
How much sun does Coleus need?+
Coleus prefers part sun. Place it where it gets that light most of the day for best growth and vigor.
How often should I water Coleus?+
Coleus has moderate water needs. Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy. Pinch off flower spikes as they appear — coleus is grown for foliage, and flowering triggers decline. Take 4-inch cuttings in late summer; they root in water within 10 days for indoor winter color.
How big does Coleus get?+
Coleus reaches a mature size of 12-36 in tall and wide. Growth rate is fast, so plan spacing accordingly when planting.
What plants grow well with Coleus?+
Coleus pairs well with Begonia, Impatiens, Caladium, Sweet potato vine. These companions share similar care requirements and don't compete aggressively for resources.
What pests affect Coleus?+
Common Coleus problems include mealybugs; spider mites in dry air; downy mildew. Catching early signs in routine inspection prevents most damage.
Design a garden with coleus in minutes
Drag plants into a 3D space, walk through it, or upload a photo and let AI redesign it. Test spacing around its mature size before you plant.
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