Coleus is a vibrant ornamental plant prized for its boldly patterned foliage. Known for its dramatic leaf colors, it provides season-long visual interest in gardens and containers.
- Plant of the Month: December 2025
Coleus scutellarioides (syn. Plectranthus scutellarioides)
Share this plant
| Common Name | Coleus |
| Scientific Name | Coleus scutellarioides (syn. Plectranthus scutellarioides) |
| Native Range (area) |
Coleus (Coleus scutellarioides) is native to Southeast Asia and the Western Pacific, specifically: • Indonesia • Malaysia • Vietnam • Thailand • India (northeastern regions) • Sri Lanka • Philippines • Papua New Guinea • Nearby Pacific islands |
| Varieties |
1. Coleus ‘Wasabi’Bright chartreuse leaves with a bold, upright habit; extremely heat-tolerant and vigorous in sun or shade. 2. Coleus ‘Redhead’Intense solid red foliage that holds its color even in full sun; dense, bushy growth and great for bold contrast. 3. Coleus ‘Henna’Lime-green leaves with coppery serrated edges; unique texture and excellent performance in heat and humidity. 4. Coleus ‘Campfire’Brilliant orange foliage that glows in sunlight; compact and eye-catching in containers or beds. 5. Coleus ColorBlaze® ‘Lime Time’Electric lime-green foliage; thrives in nearly any light and keeps its bright color all season. 6. Coleus ‘Kong Mosaic’Massive patterned leaves with green, rose, and burgundy marbling; ideal for shade and dramatic foliage displays. 7. Coleus ‘Fishnet Stockings’Green leaves with deep purple veining; striking, lace-like pattern and upright form. 8. Coleus ColorBlaze® ‘El Brighto’Multicolor blend of pink, burgundy, yellow, and lime; vigorous, upright, and reliable in sun or shade. 9. Coleus ‘Black Dragon’Deep burgundy to nearly black ruffled leaves; dramatic and moody color for shaded areas. 10. Cooleus ColorBlaze® ‘El Brighto’Vibrant mix of magenta, burgundy, and lime with great branching; stellar performance in containers and landscapes. |
| Physical Description | A bushy annual or tender perennial with soft, serrated leaves available in multicolored patterns—combinations of green, red, burgundy, pink, yellow, orange, chartreuse, and purple. Grows 12–36 inches tall depending on variety. Produces small lavender-blue flower spikes, often removed to encourage fuller foliage. |
| Benefits |
• Provides continuous, vivid color • Excellent for shade gardens • Suitable for containers and borders • Fast-growing and easy to propagate • Attracts pollinators when allowed to flower |
| Requirements | • Warm temperatures • Regular moisture • Well-drained, fertile soil • Protection from harsh afternoon sun (for many varieties) |
| Care |
• Pinch stems regularly for bushiness • Remove flower spikes to prolong leaf growth • Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged • Fertilize lightly every 2–4 weeks • Bring indoors or take cuttings before frost |
| Colors: Green, Multi-colored, Orange, Pink, Purple, Red, Yellow |
| Bloom Times: Early Fall, Early Summer, Late Summer, Mid-Summer |
| Sunlight: Full sun, Partial shade |
| Soil Type: Loamy soil, Sandy loam |
| Lifespan: Annuals |
| Foliage Type: Broad |
| Flower Type: Annuals |
| USDA Hardiness Zone: 2a, 2b, 3a, 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b |