coleus
Plectranthus scutellarioides
Cycle:
Herbaceous Perennial
Watering:
Frequent
Propagation:
Stem Propagation,Leaf Cutting,Division,Air Layering Propagation,Grafting Propagation
Hardiness Zone:
10 - 11
Flowers:
Blue to white Flowers
Sun:
part shade,full shade
Leaf:
Yes
Growth Rate:
Low
Maintenance:
Low
Drought Tolerant:
Yes
Tropical:
Yes
Indoors:
Yes
watering
Coleus plants should be watered regularly, but it is important to not over water. Depending on the conditions, such as air temperature and humidity, you can water as often as every 2 or 3 days but make sure the soil is dry between waterings. When watering, give the coleus plant enough water so that it runs out the bottom of the pot. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. If you water too much, the plant can become susceptible to root rot and fungal diseases. Furthermore, in the summer months, you may need to water more often while in the winter you can reduce the amount of water. If the plant isn’t receiving enough water, the leaves will start turning yellow and wilt.
sunlight
Coleus (Plectranthus scutellarioides) will thrive best in sunny locations during the warmer months of the year. It needs 4-6 hours of sunlight daily throughout the summer and at least 5-6 hours of partial sunlight during the winter months. Since coleus is a tropical plant, it does not tolerate cold temperatures or frost and should be kept in an area with consistently warm temperatures.
pruning
To maintain its shape and promote healthy new growth, it is recommended to prune your coleus every 8 to 10 weeks from early spring to late summer. During this time, use sharp clean pruning shears to remove up to a third of the plant's foliage and any dead or diseased branches. Be careful not to prune too extensively, as this can weaken the plant and reduce new growth. After pruning, water your coleus deeply to promote new growth and provide essential nutrition.
FAQ
Is coleus a suitable plant for indoor gardening?
Coleus is an excellent choice for indoor gardening. It does best in bright, indirect sunlight and needs moderate water and fertilizer. It is an easy to maintain plant with a low-maintenance growth habit and is highly tolerant of changing light conditions. Furthermore, its colorful foliage can liven up any indoor space. It is also an ideal choice if you are looking for a drought-tolerant plant.
Should coleus plants be grown from seeds or cuttings?
Coleus plants can be grown from either seeds or cuttings, depending on the desired results and the availability of materials. Growing from seeds will require more time since it will need to go through the germination process before the plant can be put into soil. Growing from cuttings is a quicker process since all that is needed is to cut a piece of the plant and let it take root in soil. However, if you grow from cuttings you will need a healthy, mature plant to get a cutting from. Cuttings also have the tendency to have a more consistent look and flower development than growing from seeds. Additionally, since they are clones of the parent plant they will be more resistant against diseases.
Is coleus a suitable plant for vertical gardening?
Coleus is a great choice for a vertical garden! Its bright, attractive foliage comes in a variety of colors, making it a great design element in vertical gardens. It is easy to care for and will grow well in most soil conditions. It can also tolerate shade and bright light, meaning it can be placed almost anywhere in your vertical garden. In addition, Coleus can be planted directly into containers or other structures for your vertical garden, making it a great, low-maintenance choice for your unique space.
Is coleus suitable for growing in hanging baskets?
Yes, coleus is an excellent choice for growing in hanging baskets. It is a tropical plant that prefers bright to partial shade and moist soil. Its colorful, variegated leaves are an attraction. It grows quickly and does not require much maintenance. The long trailing stems are ideal for hanging baskets. When growing in hanging baskets, be sure to water regularly and fertilize every 4-6 weeks.
Could coleus plants be grown hydroponically?
Yes, coleus plants can certainly be grown hydroponically. Coleus is a low-maintenance plant that accepts moisture well, making it an ideal choice for hydroponic systems. To grow coleus hydroponically, choose a nutrient solution specifically designed for this type of plant and place the plant in a container with holes for drainage and aeration. Be sure to provide adequate light and monitor the water temperature, pH and nutrient levels to ensure the plant is given proper care.
Is coleus a suitable plant for terrariums?
Coleus is definitely a suitable plant for terrariums, as it is a low-maintenance and hardy plant. Its colorful foliage and broad leaves add visual interest to any terrarium, while its low-light requirements make it perfect for displaying in a glass vessel with limited access to light. It is highly tolerant of indoor temperatures and requires only minimal watering to thrive. It can be propagated easily from pieces of the stem or leaves, making it very easy to care for and maintain. Thus, overall, it is a suitable plant for terrariums.
Is coleus a good choice for edging or bordering gardens?
Coleus is a great choice for edging or bordering gardens. Its attractive foliage and cheerful colors add life to the edges of walkways or planters. Plus, since Coleus is a fast-growing plant, it won’t take long to fill out the area. Coleus is low-maintenance and easy to care for in most climates, as long as it has partial shade and regular watering. Its bright colors and bold foliage make Coleus a great choice for adding a touch of personality to gardens and walkways.
Is coleus a suitable plant for indoor air purification?
Yes, coleus is a suitable plant for indoor air purification. This plant is particularly adept at removing formaldehyde, which is commonly found in a wide range of household products. Coleus is very low-maintenance, requiring only minimal watering and some shade to thrive indoors. It is an easy-to-find and affordable plant that will add a beautiful, vibrant pop of color wherever it is placed. Not only will it help to clean the air of pollutants, but the aesthetic of coleus makes it an attractive addition to any home décor.
