Botanical Name: Plectranthus scutellarioides ‘Alabama’

Common Name: Coleus

Hardiness Zone: Annual in Most Climates; Perennial in Warm Regions (USDA Zones 10–11)

Size: 20–30" Tall × 18–24" Spread

Growth Habit: Upright, Vigorous, Well-Branched Habit

Sunlight: Partial Shade to Full Shade; Tolerates Morning Sun

Soil: Prefers Moist, Well-Drained, Organic-Rich Soil

Water Needs: Moderate; Consistent Moisture for Best Performance

Bloom Season: Grown for Foliage (Spring through Fall)

Fertilizer: Light, Regular Feeding During Active Growth

Features: Rich Burgundy-Crimson Foliage with Bright Green Margins, Bold Contrast, Strong Garden Presence

Uses: Ideal for Landscape Beds, Large Containers, Borders, Mass Plantings, and Shade Gardens

Patent: ❌ Not Patented

Propagation: ✔ Propagation Permitted

See our complete Coleus Plant Guide for in depth care details.

More About Coleus ‘Alabama’

Coleus ‘Alabama’ is one of those tried-and-true varieties that reminds me why I fell in love with Coleus in the first place. The foliage is rich, deep burgundy to crimson in the center, edged in a clean, bright green margin that makes the color pop from across the garden. It’s bold without being loud. In filtered light or part shade, which is where I prefer most coleus here in Zone 8a — that contrast stays crisp and saturated all season long. 

‘Alabama’ has that classic, traditional Coleus look; strong, architectural, dependable. It makes a wonderful structural element in containers and shaded beds. I often use it toward the back of a mixed planting where it can anchor lighter or more intricate foliage in front of it. It gives a design backbone that keeps everything from feeling too soft or scattered. One thing I appreciate is that it doesn’t get coarse or oversized. It has presence, but it stays refined. With occasional pinching early in the season, you can encourage even fuller growth, though I’ve found it naturally branches well on its own.

Why We Like It (Our Trials)

In our trials at the garden center, Coleus ‘Alabama’ has been exceptionally consistent in part-shade conditions. It roots in quickly, pushes steady growth, and maintains clean leaf margins without bleeding or fading. The stems strengthen as it grows, which helps it hold that upright habit without constant maintenance. I remember one season Pink Dragon Wing Begonias in a large container. The dark center tones of ‘Alabama’ created depth, while the green edges tied beautifully into the surrounding foliage. 

Customers kept asking what the “red plant with the green outline” was because it had such strong visual presence. What really sealed the deal for me was how balanced the entire planting felt by late Summer. While some varieties can stretch or lose intensity as they mature, ‘Alabama’ held its structure and color contrast beautifully, creating a layered look that felt intentional and polished. It’s one of those coleus selections that doesn’t just fill space, t defines it.

Alabama vs. Other Coleus

‘Alabama’ brings a classic Coleus look that contrasts strongly with modern series like Main Street and Down Town®. Its softer patterning sets it apart from high-contrast varieties like ‘Defiance’ and ‘Down Town® Vegas Neon’. This traditional appearance gives it a timeless quality that feels familiar and welcoming in the landscape.

Compared to similarly sized upright types like ‘Main Street Wall Street’ and ‘Down Town® Greenville’’, Alabama is looser and less formal. It excels in cottage-style plantings. Alabama’s relaxed habit allows it to blend naturally with perennials and flowering annuals. For gardeners looking for a classic, easygoing Coleus with warmth, softness, and traditional appeal, ‘Alabama’ is an excellent choice.