Coleus Ultimate Growth and Care Guide

Discover the Best Guide for Growing Coleus. Searching for a vibrant, low-maintenance plant to add color to your garden or home?

Purchase Coleus Online -  Shop Now & We Ship To Your Door

Introduction to Coleus

Coleus, scientifically known as Coleus scutellarioides, is a highly versatile plant prized for its vibrant, eye-catching foliage rather than its flowers. A member of the mint family (Lamiaceae) and native to Southeast Asia, Coleus boasts an extraordinary range of leaf shapes, sizes, and colors, from deep burgundy and fiery red to lime green, golden yellow, and even near-black hues. Its dynamic foliage and ability to perform indoors as a houseplant further cement its reputation as one of the most valuable and visually striking plants for gardeners seeking bold color and texture in their landscapes.

My introduction to Coleus came when my mother planted Coleus as a shaded border and I scoffed, “Why plant Coleus.. it doesn’t even flower.” Time and experience have since shifted that perspective. Today, I recognize Coleus as one of the most versatile and indispensable plants in the landscape. Its vibrant foliage, adaptability to both sun and shade, and suitability for use in pots, borders, and hanging baskets have earned it a prominent place in my gardens.

Characteristics of Coleus

Coleus is celebrated for its vibrant foliage and its ability to thrive in diverse environments, Coleus performs exceptionally well in shaded areas, sunny garden beds, and even indoor containers. Its vivid foliage, available in rich burgundies, bright yellows, lush greens, and striking pinks, allows it to complement a variety of garden styles. Unlike flowering plants that have limited bloom periods, Coleus provides continuous, season-long color, making it a dependable choice for creating bold, dynamic displays in the landscape.

Size and Growth Habit

Coleus comes in a diverse range of sizes and growth habits, making it suitable for a variety of planting applications. Depending on the variety, Coleus can range from compact, 6-inch trailing types to larger, bushy forms that reach heights of up to 36 inches. These plants typically spread 12 to 24 inches wide, providing a lush, full appearance that works well as ground cover, border edging, or as the focal point of container arrangements. Their rapid growth means they quickly fill in garden beds and containers, creating a bold, dramatic effect in a short period of time.

Leaves and Flowers

The most striking feature of Coleus is its foliage, which comes in an impressive array of shapes, sizes, and patterns. Leaves may be broad and oval, delicately lobed, or intricately frilled, often with serrated edges that add visual interest. The color palette is equally diverse, featuring solid hues like lime green and deep purple as well as multicolored combinations with fiery reds, gold-edged leaves, and pink-centered varieties framed by dark margins.

Although Coleus produces small, tubular flowers on upright spikes, the blooms are generally considered insignificant compared to its foliage. In fact, many gardeners choose to remove the flower spikes as they appear, which prevents self-seeding and directs the plant’s energy toward developing more vibrant, lush foliage. Recent breeding efforts have focused on delaying the plant's flowering phase to keep attention on its foliage for a longer period during the growing season.

Is Coleus Annual or Perennial?

Coleus is classified as a tender perennial, capable of surviving for multiple years in frost-free regions (USDA Zones 10–11). However, in most climates, it is grown as an annual since it cannot withstand frost and will die back as temperatures drop. Gardeners in cooler zones typically replant it each spring once the threat of frost has passed. Despite its sensitivity to cold, Coleus’s adaptability extends to indoor growing. By bringing plants indoors before the first frost, gardeners can continue to enjoy its colorful foliage year-round as a houseplant.

Best Varieties of Coleus TESTED

These top selections have proven their value in both garden beds and container plantings, each offering unique characteristics that make them stand out among the rest.

1. Coleus 'Wasabi'

'Wasabi' is a standout Coleus variety known for its vivid chartreuse leaves with serrated edges that bring a pop of brightness to any garden. This Ball Horticulture patented variety (PP23585 UF0843) reaches heights of 18-36 inches, making it a commanding presence as a border plant. For those seeking a similar look in a more compact form, 'Gold Lace' is a non-patented alternative with the same bold color but a softer serration and a shorter height of 15-24 inches. Both thrive in sun or shade, offering unmatched versatility for those seeking bright, fresh greens in their garden design.

2. Coleus 'Meandering Linda' (aka 'Plum Brocade' or 'Trailing Plum')

This Coleus variety is known by several names, but regardless of what it’s called, its beauty is undeniable. Often sold as the patented 'Trailing Plum,' the non-patented versions 'Meandering Linda' and 'Plum Brocade' are virtually indistinguishable. This compact Coleus remains under 15 inches in height, with trailing, prostrate growth that makes it ideal for container edges or hanging baskets. Its foliage features small half-inch leaves with pink margins and dark centers in hues of black, burgundy, or chocolate brown. The color contrast is striking, and its low, spreading habit adds vibrant color to small spaces.

3. Coleus 'Mainstreet Beale Street'

The first Coleus to receive the prestigious All-America Selection (AAS) award, 'Mainstreet Beale Street' is a game-changer for those who love rich, deep red foliage. One of the biggest challenges with red Coleus varieties is color retention throughout the season, but this Dummen Orange patented variety (UF17-64-1) delivers consistent, bold color from spring to fall. Its upright growth habit reaches heights of 24-30 inches, making it a showpiece in garden beds or large containers. Sun or shade, this variety holds its color all season, bringing warmth and richness to any garden design.

4. Coleus 'Florida Sun Rose'

'Florida Sun Rose' brings dynamic color shifts to the garden as its foliage matures. Its 1-2 inch leaves start as deep burgundy with yellow margins and eventually develop burgundy centers with wide, dusty pink borders along finely serrated edges. This non-patented variety grows 24-30 inches tall and is prized for its ability to bush out and maintain its striking coloration. It’s also known for being late to flower, keeping its energy focused on foliage production. The color changes throughout the growing season make this variety an ever-evolving focal point in the landscape.

5. Coleus 'Glory Road'

'Glory Road' is a small but mighty Coleus, standing at just 8-14 inches tall. Its dramatic foliage features deep pink to rich red tones that shift to burgundy, framed by chartreuse green margins. This vibrant contrast creates a striking visual effect, making 'Glory Road' an ideal choice for use as a filler or even a "spiller" when pinched to encourage horizontal growth. This Ball Horticulture patented variety ('Baltazlord') is compact, colorful, and perfect for adding a bold accent to containers, mixed borders, and smaller garden spaces.

6. Coleus 'Pineapple'

For gardeners seeking a brilliant yellow Coleus that pairs beautifully with deep reds, 'Pineapple' is an essential addition. This non-patented variety boasts consistent golden-yellow foliage that remains vibrant in both sun and shade. Its tall, upright growth habit can reach up to 36 inches, making it an ideal backdrop or anchor plant for mixed borders. Its ability to maintain strong color and form throughout the growing season has made it a staple in gardens seeking bold, contrasting color schemes. Pair 'Pineapple' with 'Mainstreet Beale Street' for a stunning combination.

7. Coleus 'Hot Lava'

'Hot Lava' is a fiery addition to the garden, known for its dark stems in hues of black, burgundy, and chocolate brown, topped with leaves that have deep coral red or "lava"-colored margins. The heavily ruffled foliage creates a bold, textured appearance that draws the eye. This mid-sized variety reaches 24-36 inches, making it an excellent choice for bold borders and mixed plantings. 'Hot Lava' performs best in full sun, as its rich color may fade in shade. For an even more dynamic effect, pair it with 'Bonnie Gold,' a non-patented companion plant that highlights 'Hot Lava's' fiery accents.

How to Grow & Care for Coleus

When provided with the right growing conditions, Coleus produces vibrant foliage throughout the growing season. Follow these care guidelines to ensure your plants thrive.

Planting Coleus

Plant Coleus in the Spring after the danger of frost has passed. Choose a location with well-draining soil and light conditions appropriate for the variety you’re growing—shade-loving types thrive in partial to full shade, while sun-tolerant varieties, like the ColorBlaze series, can handle more sunlight. Space plants 12 to 18 inches apart in garden beds to promote good airflow and reduce the risk of disease. For container planting, use a lightweight, well-draining potting mix, and ensure the container has adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.

Sunlight Requirements

Coleus varieties differ in their light needs. Shade-loving varieties require protection from intense afternoon sun, which can scorch leaves and dull their vibrant color. Sun-tolerant varieties are bred to withstand full sun but can still perform well in partial shade. For best results, place Coleus where its light requirements match the variety's needs, ensuring it maintains its vivid color throughout the growing season.

Soil Requirements

Coleus thrives in light, well-draining soil enriched with organic matter such as compost or aged manure. Ideal soil pH ranges from 6.0 to 7.5, with slightly acidic to neutral conditions being most beneficial. If working with heavy or clay-based soil, amend it with compost or sand to improve drainage and texture, preventing root rot caused by poor drainage. Healthy soil conditions are essential for lush foliage and vibrant color.

Watering Needs

Consistent moisture is crucial for Coleus, but overwatering should be avoided. Water deeply whenever the top inch of soil feels dry, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. In containers, soil tends to dry out faster, so monitor moisture levels frequently, especially during hot weather. Avoid overhead watering, which can damage leaves and encourage fungal issues. Water at the base of the plant to maintain dry foliage and reduce the risk of disease.

Fertilizer Needs

A steady supply of nutrients supports healthy foliage and vibrant color in Coleus. At planting time, incorporate a balanced, slow-release fertilizer into the soil. Throughout the growing season, apply a water-soluble fertilizer monthly to promote growth and maintain the plant’s vivid color. Avoid over-fertilization, as too much nitrogen can cause leggy growth, detracting from the plant’s compact, bushy appearance.

Pruning & Maintenance

Routine pruning keeps Coleus plants full and healthy. Pinch back stems frequently to encourage branching and create a denser, bushier plant. Remove flower spikes as they appear to redirect the plant’s energy into foliage production. Trim off any damaged or yellowing leaves to maintain a clean, attractive appearance and reduce the risk of disease. Regular maintenance will keep your Coleus looking vibrant and robust all season long.

Overwintering

In regions with frost, Coleus is typically grown as an annual. However, it can be overwintered indoors to enjoy year-round color. Before the first frost, bring container-grown Coleus indoors and place it in a well-lit area with bright, indirect light. Cut back leggy growth and reduce watering to prevent root rot. Non-patented Coleus varieties can be propagated from cuttings in late summer, allowing you to maintain your collection of plants year after year.

Common Pests

While Coleus is generally pest-resistant, mealybugs can present a challenge. These pests are difficult to eradicate and require targeted treatment. Acephate is the most effective option for eliminating mealybugs, though neem oil can provide some control if applied repeatedly. Thorough coverage, especially on the undersides of leaves, is essential for effective treatment.

Common Diseases

Diseases are uncommon in Coleus when proper spacing, watering, and airflow are maintained. However, overwatering or poor drainage can lead to root rot or fungal issues. Proper planting techniques, along with monitoring soil moisture, significantly reduce the risk of disease.

Common Mistakes

1. Overwatering
   Overwatering is one of the most common mistakes in Coleus care. Excess moisture can cause root rot, especially in compacted soil or containers with poor drainage. Always check soil moisture before watering and ensure the soil drains well to maintain healthy roots.
2. Improper Light Conditions
   Planting shade-loving Coleus varieties in full sun can scorch their leaves and dull their foliage colors, while placing sun-tolerant varieties in excessive shade can cause their vibrant colors to fade, resulting in dull or muted foliage. To maintain healthy, colorful foliage, select the appropriate variety for your garden’s light conditions and provide the right balance of sun and shade.
3. Failing to Pinch Back Stems
   Neglecting to pinch back stems leads to leggy, sparse growth, reducing the plant’s visual appeal. Regularly pinching the growing tips encourages fuller, bushier growth and promotes vibrant, lush foliage. Pruning also prevents the plant from becoming too tall and unruly, ensuring it maintains a neat, compact form throughout the growing season.

Common Misconceptions

1. Coleus Can Only Be Grown in Shade
   While it’s true that some Coleus varieties prefer shade, many modern sun-tolerant varieties thrive in full sun. These sun-tolerant varieties have been specially bred to withstand higher light levels, offering gardeners more flexibility in where they can be planted.
2. "Sun Coleus" Can Only Grow in Sun
   Despite the name, "Sun Coleus" is not limited to full sun. These varieties can perform just as well in partial shade, making them a versatile option for both sunny and shaded garden spaces. Their adaptability to varied light conditions increases their usefulness in diverse garden designs.
3. Coleus Is Difficult to Propagate
   This could not be further from the truth. Coleus is one of the easiest plants to propagate from cuttings. With a simple snip and placement in water or soil, new roots form quickly, making it a reliable choice for gardeners looking to expand their collection without much effort.
4. Coleus Does Not Flower
   While Coleus is prized for its foliage, it does, in fact, produce flowers. The blooms are small, often pale lavender or blue, and grow on upright spikes. However, many gardeners choose to remove these flowers as they appear to keep the plant’s energy focused on vibrant foliage production. This practice has led some to mistakenly believe that Coleus does not flower at all.

Using Coleus in the Garden

Coleus’s bold foliage and unmatched versatility make it a standout choice for both outdoor gardens and indoor spaces. Whether featured as a striking focal point in garden borders or used to bring vibrant color to an indoor display, Coleus provides endless opportunities to elevate garden design. Its adaptability to sun, shade, and container environments makes it one of the most reliable foliage plants available.

Mixed Borders

Coleus is a favorite for mixed garden borders due to its vivid color and contrasting texture. The bright, multi-colored foliage stands out beautifully against shade-loving greenery like ferns, hostas, and heucheras. In sunny borders, sun-tolerant Coleus varieties pair well with ornamental grasses or flowering perennials like coneflowers and black-eyed Susans. This combination creates a visually balanced and dynamic look. The bushy growth habit of Coleus ensures it fills garden beds with lush foliage, providing a rich backdrop for other plants. With its broad palette of colors and leaf patterns, Coleus can complement garden styles ranging from tropical-inspired designs to classic cottage gardens.

Containers and Planters

Coleus is a natural choice for containers and planters, adding structure, texture, and vivid color to patios, balconies, and entryways. Its upright, bushy form serves as an eye-catching centerpiece, while its foliage provides a rich tapestry of colors. For a cascading effect, pair Coleus with trailing plants like sweet potato vine or creeping Jenny. It also pairs well with flowering plants like petunias and impatiens to create multi-layered, color-rich container arrangements. Its adaptability to both sun and shade makes it an excellent option for container gardening in various light conditions, and its compact form allows for creative use in small spaces or tight corners.

Indoor Plants

As a houseplant, Coleus brings bold, year-round color to indoor spaces. Its striking foliage can liven up living rooms, offices, or kitchen windowsills, especially when displayed in decorative pots or hanging baskets. For best results, place Coleus near bright, indirect light to maintain its vibrant leaf color and prevent legginess. Indoors, it pairs well with other tropical plants like pothos, peace lilies, and philodendrons, creating a lush, vibrant display. To add seasonal interest, rotate Coleus varieties to match seasonal decor, using their foliage to complement holiday color schemes or special events. With its colorful leaves and adaptability to indoor conditions, Coleus is a valuable addition to any indoor plant collection.

Experience the Beauty of Coleus

Ready to grow Coleus in your garden? Visit us at [Garden Center Name] to explore a wide selection of Coleus plants and seeds. Bring bold, beautiful color to your garden with Coleus today!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Coleus a Monocot or a Dicot?

Coleus is classified as a dicot, a term used to describe plants with two embryonic seed leaves (cotyledons). As a dicot, Coleus features net-like veins in its leaves, floral structures typically arranged in multiples of four or five, and a branching vascular system in its stems. These traits are key identifiers of dicotyledonous plants. Its vibrant foliage and ability to thrive in diverse growing conditions have made it a favorite for both garden beds and container plantings.

Is Coleus Edible?

Coleus is grown strictly for its ornamental beauty and is not considered edible. While it is not classified as highly toxic, some varieties contain compounds that may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort if ingested by humans or animals. To avoid potential issues, it's best not to consume Coleus or use it in culinary applications. For gardeners seeking edible plants with colorful foliage, consider Swiss chard or ornamental kale as safe, visually appealing alternatives.

Do Deer Eat Coleus?

Coleus is generally regarded as a deer-resistant plant due to its aromatic foliage and slightly bitter taste, which most deer find unappealing. However, no plant is entirely "deer-proof." During periods of food scarcity or in areas with high deer populations, deer may nibble on Coleus plants. For gardens with heavy deer activity, consider planting Coleus alongside other deer-resistant species or employ protective measures such as physical barriers or repellents.

Is Coleus Toxic to Cats and Dogs?

Yes, Coleus is considered toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. It contains essential oils that can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, and, in some cases, depression of the central nervous system. While the level of toxicity is generally mild to moderate, it’s recommended to keep Coleus out of reach of pets to avoid accidental ingestion. If a pet consumes Coleus, consult a veterinarian for guidance and care.

Do Rabbits Eat Coleus?

Rabbits typically avoid eating Coleus due to its aromatic foliage and mildly bitter taste, which serve as natural deterrents. While it is not entirely "rabbit-proof," it is considered a low-risk option for rabbit-prone gardens. In times of food scarcity, rabbits may still nibble on tender, young Coleus leaves. To protect Coleus from rabbits, gardeners can install fencing or use natural deterrents around the plants.

What to Plant with Coleus?

Coleus pairs well with a wide range of companion plants, making it a versatile choice for garden beds and containers. In containers, it combines beautifully with trailing plants like sweet potato vine or creeping Jenny, creating a cascading effect. To achieve upright interest, pair Coleus with ornamental grasses or elephant ears. In garden beds, it thrives alongside shade-tolerant plants like ferns, hostas, and impatiens, which provide lush greenery to complement the bold colors of Coleus foliage. Pairing Coleus with flowering annuals like begonias or petunias further enhances the visual appeal of both sunny and shaded areas.

Where Can I Buy Coleus Plants?

Coleus plants are widely available at local garden centers and through online retailers. For those in Greenville, South Carolina, local stores such as Home Depot and Lowe's offer a variety of Coleus plants. The Upstate Native Nursery, part of the South Carolina Native Plant Society, may also carry Coleus or similar native plants. For online shopping, reputable nurseries like GrowJoy and Rosy Dawn Gardens specialize in Coleus varieties and ship directly to customers. It’s recommended to check inventory availability online or call local retailers before visiting to ensure your desired varieties are in stock.