Coleus (Coleus scutellarioides)

Coleus, also commonly known as painted nettle, flame nettle, or Solenostemon, Solenostemon scutellarioides (botanical name), are vibrant, versatile plants prized for their stunning foliage. These members of the mint family (Lamiaceae) offer an incredible range of colors, patterns, and leaf shapes, providing an instant visual impact in gardens and containers.

At Gardencenterpoint.com, we understand the allure of these easy-to-grow beauties. This guide offers everything you need for buying coleus and achieving breathtaking displays, whether you are finding specific coleus varieties or troubleshooting issues. We aim to be your trusted resource for all things Coleus plants.

Contents hide

1 What is Coleus? Botany, History, and Benefits

6 Troubleshooting Coleus Problems: Common Issues and Solutions

7 Coleus in Containers

8 Coleus Indoors

9 Coleus Pros and Cons

10 Where to Buy Coleus

What is Coleus? Botany, History, and Benefits

Coleus plants are native to Southeast Asia and parts of Australia. They have a long history of cultivation, initially valued for their medicinal properties and later embraced for their ornamental value. The Victorian era saw a surge in coleus popularity, with breeders developing countless hybrids with striking color combinations.

Common name	Coleus, Painted Nettle, Flame Nettle
Botanical name	Solenostemon scutellarioides (formerly Coleus blumei)
Family	Lamiaceae (Mint family)
Genus	Solenostemon
Species	scutellarioides
Origin	Southeast Asia, Australia
Native	Not native to the USA, but widely naturalized in some areas.
Life cycle	Tender Perennial (usually grown as an Annual)
Plant type	Herbaceous
Hardiness zone	Typically zones 10-11 (as a perennial), grown as an annual in all zones.
Sunlight	Partial Shade to Full Shade (some varieties tolerate Full Sun)
Maintenance	Low
Water	Moderate
Drainage	Well-Drained
Spacing	12-18 inches (depending on variety)
Flowering period	Summer to Fall (flowers are often removed)
Height	6 inches to 3 feet (depending on variety)
Growth rate	Fast
Flower color	Blue, Purple, White (typically insignificant)
Stem color	Green, Purple, Red (can vary)
Foliage color	Extremely varied; includes shades of Red, Pink, Yellow, Green, Purple, Orange, White, and combinations thereof.
Foliage benefit	Season-long color, diverse patterns and textures.
Garden style	Versatile; suitable for Shade Gardens, Container Gardens, Borders, Mass Plantings.
Uses	Ornamental, Container Plant, Houseplant, Groundcover (some varieties).
Soil pH	6.0-7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Propagation	Stem Cuttings (very easy)
Pest and disease	Susceptible to aphids, mealybugs, spider mites, whiteflies, downy mildew, and powdery mildew (under certain conditions).
Deer Resistance	Seldom Severly Damaged.

Botanically, coleus are classified as tender perennials, meaning they are not frost-hardy and are typically grown as annuals in colder climates. They belong to the Lamiaceae family, which also includes mint, basil, and lavender. This family connection is evident in the square stems characteristic of coleus.

The primary appeal of coleus lies in its foliage. Unlike many flowering plants, coleus offers vibrant color throughout the growing season, not just when in bloom. The leaves display an extraordinary range of hues, including:

Reds: From deep burgundy to fiery scarlet.
Pinks: Soft pastels to vibrant magenta.
Yellows: Pale lemon to rich gold.
Greens: Lime green to deep forest green.
Purples: Lavender to deep violet, almost black.
Oranges: From apricot to burnt sienna.
Whites and Creams: Variegated patterns.

The leaves also exhibit diverse patterns, including:

Solid Colors: Single, uniform hues.
Variegated: Two or more colors in distinct patterns.
Splashed: Irregular markings of different colors.
Veined: Contrasting veins running through the leaf.
Edged: A different color along the leaf margin.

Beyond their aesthetic appeal, coleus plants offer several benefits:

Shade Tolerance: Many varieties thrive in partial to full shade, making them ideal for brightening up areas where other plants struggle.
Easy Care: Coleus are relatively low-maintenance plants, requiring minimal effort to thrive.
Fast Growth: They grow quickly, providing rapid visual impact.
Versatility: They can be grown in gardens, containers, hanging baskets, and even indoors.
Pollinator Attraction: While primarily grown for foliage, coleus flowers do attract pollinators like bees and hummingbirds.
Deer Resistence: According to Rutgers University Extension, Coleus are rated “Seldom Severly Damaged” on their list of landscape plants rated by deer resistence.

A study published in the journal HortTechnology in 2011 investigated the light requirements of different coleus cultivars. The researchers found that while many coleus varieties tolerate full shade, some perform best with a few hours of morning sunlight. This highlights the importance of understanding the specific needs of each cultivar. (“Light Intensity Affects Growth and Foliage Color of Coleus Cultivars,” HortTechnology, 2011).

Coleus Varieties

The sheer number of coleus varieties available is astounding. Breeders have created an almost limitless array of colors, patterns, and leaf shapes. Here’s a breakdown of some popular categories and examples:

Trailing Coleus: These varieties have a cascading habit, making them perfect for hanging baskets and containers. Examples include:
- ‘Red Trailing Queen’: Deep red foliage with a trailing habit.
- ‘Trailing Plum Brocade’: Features plum-colored leaves with deeply serrated edges.
- ‘Meandering Linda’: Another trailing variety of Coleus.
Sun-Tolerant Coleus: While many coleus prefer shade, some have been bred to tolerate full sun. Examples include:
- ‘Solar Sunrise’: Vibrant lime green and burgundy foliage.
- ‘Wasabi’: Chartreuse leaves that hold their color even in full sun.
- ‘ColorBlaze Golden Dreams’: Features bright gold foliage.
Giant Coleus: These varieties produce large, dramatic leaves. Examples include:
- ‘Kong Series’: Known for its enormous leaves in a range of colors.
- ‘Giant Exhibition’: Offers large, deeply lobed leaves.
Dwarf Coleus: These compact varieties are ideal for small spaces and edging. Examples include:
- ‘Wizard Series’: Compact plants with a wide range of colors.
- ‘Fairway Series’: Small, mounding plants with vibrant foliage.
Unique Leaf Shapes: Some coleus varieties boast unusual leaf shapes, adding another layer of interest. Examples include:
- ‘Fishnet Stockings’: Features deeply serrated leaves with a net-like pattern.
- ‘Twist and Twirl’: Offers contorted, twisted leaves.
- ‘Duckfoot’: As the name indicates, the leaves of this variety are shaped like a duck’s foot.

When selecting coleus varieties, consider the following factors:

Light Requirements: Determine how much sun or shade your planting location receives.
Mature Size: Choose varieties that will fit the available space.
Color and Pattern: Select colors and patterns that complement your existing garden design.
Leaf Shape: Consider adding varieties with unique leaf shapes for added visual interest.

Gardencenterpoint recommends researching specific cultivars to ensure they meet your needs and preferences. Online resources, such as university extension websites and gardening forums, provide detailed information about individual varieties.

Planting Coleus

Planting coleus is a straightforward process. Follow these steps for optimal results:

Timing: Wait until after the last frost has passed and the soil has warmed up. Coleus are sensitive to cold temperatures, and frost can damage or kill them. The ideal soil temperature is 60°F (15°C) or higher.
Location: Choose a location that matches the light requirements of your chosen variety. Most coleus prefer partial shade, meaning they receive 4-6 hours of indirect sunlight per day. Some varieties tolerate full shade (less than 4 hours of sunlight), while others can handle full sun (6+ hours of direct sunlight).
Soil Preparation: Coleus thrive in well-drained, fertile soil. Amend heavy clay soil with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility. A soil pH of 6.0-7.0 is ideal.
Spacing: Space plants according to their mature size. Allow 12-18 inches between most varieties, but check the plant tag for specific recommendations.
Planting:
- Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball of the plant.
- Gently remove the plant from its container, being careful not to damage the roots.
- Place the plant in the hole so that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil.
- Backfill the hole with soil, gently firming it around the roots.
- Water thoroughly after planting.
Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch, such as shredded bark or compost, around the plants. Mulch helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

Table: Planting Coleus Summary

Step	Description
Timing	After last frost, soil temperature 60°F (15°C) or higher.
Location	Partial shade (4-6 hours indirect sunlight) for most; some varieties tolerate full shade or full sun.
Soil Preparation	Well-drained, fertile soil; amend heavy clay with compost; pH 6.0-7.0.
Spacing	12-18 inches between plants, depending on variety.
Planting	Dig hole, remove plant from container, place in hole, backfill with soil, water thoroughly.
Mulching	Apply 2-3 inches of organic mulch.

Coleus Care

Coleus are relatively low-maintenance plants, but providing proper care will ensure they thrive and display their best colors.

Watering: Water regularly, especially during hot, dry periods. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot. A good rule of thumb is to water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Using a soaker hose or drip irrigation can help deliver water directly to the roots, reducing water waste and minimizing fungal diseases.
Fertilizing: Coleus benefit from regular feeding. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the growing season. Alternatively, you can incorporate a slow-release fertilizer into the soil at planting time. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application rates. Over-fertilizing can lead to leggy growth and reduced color intensity.
Pinching: Pinching back the growing tips of young plants encourages bushier growth and prevents them from becoming leggy. Simply pinch off the top set of leaves using your fingers or pruning shears. You can repeat this process throughout the growing season to maintain a compact shape.
Flowering: Coleus produce small, inconspicuous flowers on spikes. While some gardeners find them attractive, many prefer to remove them to focus the plant’s energy on foliage production. Pinching off the flower spikes will also encourage bushier growth.
Overwintering: In colder climates, coleus are typically grown as annuals. However, you can overwinter them indoors if you wish. Before the first frost, dig up the plants and pot them in containers. Place them in a bright location, such as a sunny windowsill, and water sparingly throughout the winter. You can also take cuttings from your plants and root them in water or potting mix.
Pest and Disease Control: Monitor your plants regularly.

Table: Coleus Care Summary

Care Aspect	Recommendations
Watering	Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water when top inch of soil is dry.
Fertilizing	Use balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 2-4 weeks or slow-release fertilizer at planting.
Pinching	Pinch back growing tips to encourage bushier growth.
Flowering	Remove flower spikes to promote foliage production (optional).
Overwintering	Dig up and pot plants before frost, or take cuttings; overwinter indoors in a bright location.
Pest/Diseases	Check for pests and diseases on a consistent basis. Treat accordingly.

Propagating Coleus

Coleus are incredibly easy to propagate, allowing you to create new plants from cuttings quickly and inexpensively. Here are two common methods:

Stem Cuttings in Water:
1. Take 4-6 inch cuttings from healthy stems, just below a node (where a leaf joins the stem).
2. Remove the lower leaves, leaving 2-3 sets of leaves at the top.
3. Place the cuttings in a glass of water, ensuring that no leaves are submerged.
4. Change the water every few days to prevent stagnation.
5. Roots should develop within 2-3 weeks.
6. Once the roots are 1-2 inches long, pot the cuttings in a well-draining potting mix.
Stem Cuttings in Potting Mix:
1. Take 4-6 inch cuttings as described above.
2. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone powder (optional, but it can speed up rooting).
3. Insert the cuttings into a moist, well-draining potting mix.
4. Cover the cuttings with a plastic bag or humidity dome to maintain high humidity.
5. Place the cuttings in a bright location, out of direct sunlight.
6. Keep the potting mix consistently moist but not waterlogged.
7. Roots should develop within 3-4 weeks.
8. Gradually acclimate the rooted cuttings to normal conditions by removing the plastic bag or humidity dome for increasing periods each day.

Troubleshooting Coleus Problems: Common Issues and Solutions

While coleus are generally easy to grow, they can occasionally experience problems. Here are some common issues and their solutions:

Leggy Growth: This is often caused by insufficient light or lack of pinching. Move the plant to a brighter location and pinch back the growing tips to encourage bushier growth.
Faded Colors: Insufficient light can also cause the vibrant colors of coleus to fade. Move the plant to a location with more light, but be sure to acclimate it gradually to avoid leaf burn. Over-fertilizing can also lead to reduced color intensity.
Dropping Leaves: This can be caused by a number of factors, including underwatering, overwatering, cold temperatures, or pests. Check the soil moisture, ensure the plant is not exposed to cold drafts, and inspect for pests.
Yellowing Leaves: Yellowing leaves can indicate overwatering, nutrient deficiencies, or root rot. Check the soil drainage, adjust your watering practices, and consider fertilizing if necessary.
Pests: Coleus can be susceptible to several pests, including aphids, mealybugs, spider mites, and whiteflies. Inspect your plants regularly for signs of infestation. You can often control minor infestations by washing the plants with a strong stream of water or applying insecticidal soap. For more severe infestations, you may need to use a systemic insecticide.
Diseases: Coleus are generally resistant to diseases, but they can be affected by fungal problems, such as downy mildew and powdery mildew. These diseases are more common in humid conditions with poor air circulation. Ensure good air circulation around your plants and avoid overhead watering. If necessary, you can treat fungal diseases with a fungicide.

Companion Plants for Coleus

Coleus, with its vibrant foliage and diverse range of colors and patterns, is a fantastic addition to any garden. But the true magic happens when you pair coleus with the right companion plants. Strategic companion planting not only enhances the visual appeal of your garden but can also improve plant health and deter pests. Gardencenterpoint.com is here to guide you through selecting the best companions for your coleus, ensuring a thriving and beautiful garden.

Understanding the Principles of Companion Planting

Before diving into specific plant pairings, it’s helpful to understand the basic principles of companion planting:

Light Requirements: Match plants with similar light needs. If your coleus variety prefers shade, choose companions that also thrive in shade. For sun-tolerant coleus, select sun-loving companions.
Watering Needs: Group plants with similar watering requirements to avoid overwatering or underwatering some plants.
Growth Habits: Consider the mature size and growth habit of each plant. Avoid pairing a vigorous, spreading plant with a delicate, slow-growing one.
Color and Texture: Use color and texture to create visual interest. Combine coleus with plants that offer contrasting or complementary colors and textures.
Pest Control: Some plants can repel pests that might bother coleus, while others attract beneficial insects that prey on pests.
Nutrient Requirements: Choose companions with nutrient needs.

Top Companion Plants for Coleus

Here’s a detailed look at some of the best companion plants for coleus, categorized by their suitability for shade or sun gardens:

Shade Garden Companions:

Impatiens (Impatiens walleriana): These classic shade annuals offer a profusion of bright, cheerful flowers in a wide range of colors, including white, pink, red, orange, and purple. They provide a beautiful contrast to the foliage of coleus.
- Benefits: Easy to grow, long bloom period, attracts pollinators.
- Considerations: Require consistent moisture; susceptible to downy mildew in humid conditions.
  - Spacing: 6-12 inches.
- Example Varieties: ‘Super Elfin’ series, ‘Accent’ series, ‘Dazzler’ series.
Begonias (Begonia spp.): Begonias offer a wide variety of flower and foliage colors and textures, making them incredibly versatile companions for coleus. Wax begonias (Begonia semperflorens) have glossy leaves and small, delicate flowers, while tuberous begonias (Begonia x tuberhybrida) produce large, showy blooms.
- Benefits: Diverse range of colors and forms, long bloom period, tolerate shade well.
- Considerations: Some varieties are susceptible to powdery mildew; tuberous begonias require special care.
  - Spacing: 8-12 inches.
- Example Varieties: ‘Dragon Wing’ begonia, ‘Nonstop’ begonia, ‘Rieger’ begonia.
Hostas (Hosta spp.): Hostas are prized for their large, textured leaves, which come in a wide range of colors, including green, blue, gold, and variegated. They provide a beautiful backdrop for the vibrant colors of coleus.
- Benefits: Low-maintenance, long-lived, diverse range of leaf colors and textures.
- Considerations: Slugs and snails can be a problem; some varieties are more sun-tolerant than others.
  - Spacing: 1-3 feet, depending on variety.
- Example Varieties: ‘Patriot’ hosta, ‘Frances Williams’ hosta, ‘Sum and Substance’ hosta.
Ferns (Various genera): Ferns add a touch of elegance and delicacy to shade gardens with their feathery fronds. They provide a beautiful textural contrast to the bolder foliage of coleus.
- Benefits: Low-maintenance, thrive in shade, add texture and interest.
- Considerations: Some ferns can be aggressive spreaders; require consistent moisture.
  - Spacing: 1-3 feet, depending on variety.
- Example Varieties: Japanese painted fern (Athyrium niponicum ‘Pictum’), Lady fern (Athyrium filix-femina), Ostrich fern (Matteuccia struthiopteris).
Caladiums (Caladium bicolor): Caladiums are tropical plants with large, heart-shaped leaves in striking combinations of colors, including pink, red, white, and green. They create a dramatic display alongside coleus.
- Benefits: Stunning foliage, thrive in shade, add a tropical touch.
- Considerations: Require warm temperatures; not frost-hardy; need consistent moisture.
  - Spacing: 12-18 inches.
- Example Varieties: ‘White Christmas’ caladium, ‘Florida Sweetheart’ caladium, ‘Red Flash’ caladium.
Heuchera (Heuchera spp.): Also called Coral Bells. The foliage offers a mounding habit.
- Benefits: Come in a variety of colors, adding depth.
- Considerations: Newer varieties are more sun-tolerant.
  - Spacing: 12-18 inches.
- Example Varieties: ‘Palace Purple’, ‘Obsidian’.

Sun Garden Companions (for Sun-Tolerant Coleus Varieties):

Petunias (Petunia spp.): Petunias are popular annuals that produce a profusion of trumpet-shaped flowers in a wide range of colors. They provide a vibrant and cheerful backdrop for sun-tolerant coleus.
- Benefits: Easy to grow, long bloom period, attract pollinators.
- Considerations: Require regular deadheading to promote continuous bloom; susceptible to aphids.
  - Spacing: 12-18 inches
- Example Varieties: ‘Wave’ petunia, ‘Supertunia’ petunia, ‘Easy Wave’ petunia.
Zinnias (Zinnia spp.): Zinnias are cheerful, daisy-like flowers that come in a wide range of colors and sizes. They are easy to grow and attract butterflies and other pollinators.
- Benefits: Easy to grow from seed, long bloom period, attract butterflies.
- Considerations: Susceptible to powdery mildew in humid conditions.
  - Spacing: 6-18 inches, depending on variety.
- Example Varieties: ‘State Fair’ zinnia, ‘Zowie Yellow Flame’ zinnia, ‘Profusion’ zinnia.
Marigolds (Tagetes spp.): Marigolds are classic garden plants with bright, cheerful flowers in shades of yellow, orange, and red. They are known for their ability to repel some garden pests.
- Benefits: Easy to grow, repel some pests, long bloom period.
- Considerations: Some people dislike the strong scent of marigolds.
  - Spacing: 6-12 inches.
- Example Varieties: ‘French’ marigold, ‘African’ marigold, ‘Signet’ marigold.
Salvia (Salvia spp.): Salvia offers spikes of colorful flowers that attract hummingbirds and butterflies. They come in a variety of colors, including blue, purple, red, and pink.
- Benefits: Attract pollinators, long bloom period, drought-tolerant.
- Considerations: Some varieties can be aggressive spreaders.
  - Spacing: 12-24 inches, depending on variety.
- Example Varieties: ‘Black and Blue’ salvia, ‘Victoria Blue’ salvia, ‘May Night’ salvia.
Sweet Potato Vine (Ipomoea batatas): While technically a food crop, ornamental sweet potato vine is grown for its vibrant foliage, which comes in a range of colors, including chartreuse, purple, and bronze. It’s a vigorous trailing plant that makes an excellent spiller in containers or groundcover in garden beds.
- Benefits: Fast-growing, colorful foliage, drought-tolerant.
- Considerations: Can be invasive in some areas; may need regular pruning to control its spread.
  - Spacing: 12-24 inches.
- Example Varieties: ‘Margarita’ sweet potato vine, ‘Blackie’ sweet potato vine, ‘Tricolor’ sweet potato vine.
Lantana (Lantana camara): Lantana provides bright colors and attracts butterflies.
- Benefits: Drought Tolerant
- Considerations: Can be invasive.
  - Spacing: 12-36 inches.
- Example Varieties: ‘Luscious Berry Blend’, ‘Bandana’.

Creating Successful Combinations: Design Tips

Vary Heights: Combine plants of different heights to create a dynamic and visually interesting display. Use taller plants, such as some salvia or larger coleus varieties, as backdrops, and shorter plants, such as impatiens or marigolds, as edging.
Mix Textures: Combine plants with different leaf textures. Pair the bold foliage of coleus with the delicate fronds of ferns or the grassy texture of ornamental grasses.
Consider Bloom Times: If you are using flowering companions, choose plants with overlapping bloom times to ensure continuous color throughout the growing season.
Repeat Elements: Repeat certain plants or color combinations throughout your garden to create a sense of unity and cohesion.
Soil Considerations: All suggested companion plants are tolerant of similar soil conditions. Well-drained, fertile soil is best.

Coleus in Containers

Coleus are exceptionally well-suited for container gardening. Their vibrant colors and varied leaf shapes provide instant visual impact, and their relatively compact size makes them ideal for patios, balconies, and other small spaces.

Choosing the Right Container: Select a container that is appropriately sized for the coleus variety you are growing. Make sure the container has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
Potting Mix: Use a high-quality, well-draining potting mix. Avoid using garden soil in containers, as it can become compacted and restrict drainage.
Planting: Follow the same planting instructions as for in-ground planting (see Section 3).
Watering and Fertilizing: Container-grown plants tend to dry out more quickly than those in the ground. Water regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. Fertilize every 2-4 weeks with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
Design Ideas:
- Monochromatic: Use different varieties of coleus in shades of a single color for a sophisticated look.
- Contrasting Colors: Combine coleus varieties with contrasting colors for a bold and dramatic display.
- Thriller-Filler-Spiller: Use an upright coleus variety as a thriller, smaller coleus varieties as fillers, and a trailing coleus variety as a spiller.
- Mixed Containers: Combine coleus with other container-friendly plants, such as petunias, calibrachoas, and sweet potato vine.

Coleus Indoors

Coleus can also be grown as houseplants, bringing their vibrant colors indoors.

Light: Coleus need bright, indirect light to thrive indoors. A south-facing window with a sheer curtain is ideal. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
Watering: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
Humidity: Coleus prefer moderate to high humidity. You can increase humidity by placing the pot on a tray of pebbles filled with water, or by using a humidifier.
Fertilizing: Fertilize every 2-4 weeks with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce or eliminate fertilizing during the fall and winter.
Pruning: Pinch back the growing tips to encourage bushier growth.
Pests: Indoor coleus can be susceptible to the same pests as outdoor plants (see Section 6). Inspect your plants regularly and treat any infestations promptly.

Coleus Pros and Cons

Coleus plants are undeniably popular additions to gardens and homes, celebrated for their vibrant foliage and ease of care. However, like any plant, they come with their own set of advantages and potential drawbacks. Gardencenterpoint.com believes in providing a transparent and complete picture, enabling you to make informed decisions about whether coleus is the right choice for you. This section presents a detailed analysis of the pros and cons of growing coleus, offering insights and solutions to help you maximize the benefits and minimize any challenges.

Pros of Growing Coleus:

Stunning Foliage Color and Variety: This is the primary reason most gardeners choose coleus. The range of colors, patterns, and leaf shapes is truly remarkable, offering virtually limitless design possibilities. From fiery reds and oranges to deep purples and vibrant greens, coleus provides instant visual impact that lasts throughout the growing season, unlike many flowering plants that bloom only for a short period.
- Example: You can create a monochromatic garden bed using different shades of red coleus, or a vibrant, contrasting display by combining purple, lime green, and orange varieties.
- Research: The sheer number of coleus cultivars is a testament to its popularity and breeding efforts. Horticultural databases list hundreds, if not thousands, of named varieties.
Shade Tolerance: Many coleus varieties thrive in partial to full shade, making them invaluable for brightening up areas where other plants struggle. This is a significant advantage for gardeners with shady yards or limited sun exposure.
- Example: Coleus can be used to create a vibrant underplanting beneath trees or to add color to a north-facing patio.
- Research: Studies, such as the one published in HortTechnology (2011) mentioned earlier, confirm the shade tolerance of many coleus cultivars, although light requirements can vary between varieties.
Easy Care and Low Maintenance: Coleus are generally undemanding plants, requiring minimal effort to thrive. They are relatively drought-tolerant once established and don’t require extensive pruning or deadheading.
- Example: A simple watering schedule, occasional fertilization, and pinching back the growing tips are often all that’s needed to keep coleus looking their best.
- Gardencenterpoint Tip: Using a slow-release fertilizer at planting time can further reduce maintenance.
Fast Growth and Rapid Impact: Coleus grow quickly, providing rapid visual impact in the garden. This is particularly beneficial for filling in gaps or creating quick displays for special events.
- Example: You can plant coleus seedlings in the spring and have a lush, colorful display within weeks.
- Gardencenterpoint Tip: Choose larger, more mature plants at the nursery for an even faster impact.
Easy Propagation: Coleus are incredibly easy to propagate from stem cuttings, allowing you to create new plants quickly and inexpensively. This is a great way to expand your collection or share plants with friends.
- Example: You can take cuttings from your favorite coleus plants in the summer and root them in water or potting mix to create new plants for the following season.
- Gardencenterpoint Tip: Rooting hormone powder can speed up the rooting process, although it’s not strictly necessary.
Versatility: Coleus can be grown in a variety of settings, including gardens, containers, hanging baskets, and even indoors as houseplants. This versatility makes them a great choice for gardeners with limited space.
- Example: You can grow coleus in a window box on your balcony, in a hanging basket on your porch, or in a large container on your patio.
- Gardencenterpoint Recommendation: Choose trailing varieties for hanging baskets and upright varieties for containers and garden beds.
Deer Resistance: A significant advantage in areas where deer are prevalent is the deer resistance that Coleus provide.
- Example: If deer frequent your property and eat your plants, Coleus is an option to choose that is usually not bothered.
- Research: According to Rutgers University Extension, Coleus are rated Seldom Severly Damaged on their list of Landscape Plants Rated by Deer Resistance.

Cons of Growing Coleus:

Cold Sensitivity: Coleus are tender perennials, meaning they are not frost-hardy and will be damaged or killed by freezing temperatures. In colder climates, they are typically grown as annuals or overwintered indoors.
- Solution: Wait until after the last frost has passed before planting coleus outdoors. If you want to overwinter them, dig them up and pot them before the first frost, or take cuttings and root them indoors.
- Gardencenterpoint suggestion: Be sure to plant after the risk of frost has passed.
Leggy Growth: If coleus plants don’t receive enough light or are not pinched back regularly, they can become leggy and lose their compact shape.
- Solution: Provide adequate light (partial shade for most varieties, full sun for sun-tolerant varieties) and pinch back the growing tips regularly to encourage bushier growth.
- Gardencenterpoint Tip: Pinching off the flower spikes can also help prevent legginess and promote foliage production.
Faded Colors: Insufficient light can also cause the vibrant colors of coleus to fade. Over-fertilizing can also lead to reduced color intensity.
- Solution: Move the plant to a location with more light (gradually acclimating it to avoid leaf burn), and follow recommended fertilization guidelines. Use a balanced fertilizer and avoid over-applying it.
  - Gardencenterpoint Tip: Test your soil to determine nutrient levels and adjust your fertilization practices accordingly.
Pest Susceptibility: Coleus can be susceptible to certain pests, including aphids, mealybugs, spider mites, and whiteflies.
- Solution: Inspect your plants regularly for signs of infestation. You can often control minor infestations by washing the plants with a strong stream of water or applying insecticidal soap. For more severe infestations, you may need to use a systemic insecticide.
- Gardencenterpoint Tip: Encourage beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and lacewings, which prey on pests.
Disease Potential (in humid conditions): While generally disease-resistant, coleus can be affected by fungal problems, such as downy mildew and powdery mildew, particularly in humid conditions with poor air circulation.
- Solution: Ensure good air circulation around your plants and avoid overhead watering. If necessary, you can treat fungal diseases with a fungicide.
- Gardencenterpoint Tip: Choose disease-resistant varieties whenever possible.
May Require Regular Watering: Although becoming more drought tolerant as they become established, Coleus prefer consistently moist soil.
- Solution: Regular watering, and adding mulch can help retain moisture.
- Gardencenterpoint Tip: Using a soaker hose is a great way to water Coleus.

Weighing the Pros and Cons:

The benefits of growing coleus, particularly their stunning foliage, ease of care, and versatility, often outweigh the potential drawbacks for many gardeners. By understanding the challenges and implementing the solutions provided, you can successfully grow healthy, vibrant coleus plants that will enhance your garden or home. Gardencenterpoint.com is here to support you every step of the way, providing resources, expert advice, and connections to reputable suppliers. The minor maintenance is a small price to pay for the incredible visual impact that coleus provides.

Where to Buy Coleus

Gardencenterpoint.com serves as a comprehensive hub connecting you to reputable sources for buying coleus plants and seeds. We provide a curated directory of local nurseries, garden centers, and online retailers offering a wide selection of coleus varieties. We do not sell directly but instead facilitate your search for high-quality plants at competitive prices.

When choosing a supplier, consider the following:

Reputation: Look for nurseries and retailers with a good reputation for providing healthy plants. Read online reviews and ask for recommendations from other gardeners.
Selection: Choose a supplier that offers a wide variety of coleus cultivars, so you can find the perfect plants for your needs.
Plant Health: Inspect the plants carefully before purchasing. Look for healthy, vibrant foliage with no signs of pests or diseases. Avoid plants that are wilted, leggy, or have yellowing leaves.
Price: Compare prices from different suppliers to ensure you are getting a fair deal.
Shipping: If you are ordering online, check the supplier’s shipping policies. Make sure they ship to your location and that the plants will be packaged properly to prevent damage during transit.

Gardencenterpoint also provides resources to help you make informed decisions, including:

Plant Finder Tool: Our search tool allows you to filter coleus varieties by color, size, light requirements, and other characteristics.
Nursery Directory: Our directory lists local nurseries and garden centers in your area.
Expert Advice: Our blog and articles provide valuable information on coleus care, propagation, and troubleshooting.