Coleus
solenostemon scutellarioides
Also known as: ["Plectranthus scutellarioides","Coleus blumei","Coleus forskohlii"]
Overview
A popular ornamental plant known for its vibrant, colorful foliage and ease of cultivation.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","low maintenance","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Solenostemon |
| Botanical Name: | Solenostemon scutellarioides |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: indoor pot or shaded garden bed
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days, especially in dry indoor environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging and root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with peat, perlite, and organic matter; can use a standard houseplant mix with added drainage amendments.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Every 4–6 weeks during growing season; as needed to remove dead or leggy growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; trim back up to one-third of the plant to encourage fuller growth.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct light; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to partial sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; move outdoors in spring/summer for stronger light.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; avoid letting the plant sit in water; adjust watering based on season and humidity.
Soil
well-draining, fertile potting mix with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix that doesn't compact easily; avoid heavy garden soil; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); thrives in warm, humid conditions; sensitive to cold drafts.
Avoid placing near cold windows; maintain consistent room temperature; use a humidifier in dry environments.
Fertilizing
every 2–4 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil; division of clumps for mature plants.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting below a leaf node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in water or moist soil.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix or water with occasional changes; perlite or sand can improve drainage.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting; rooting powder or gel is recommended for faster establishment.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks in water; soil propagation may take slightly longer.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors or knife, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, water or soil medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; change water every few days if using water propagation; maintain high humidity for soil propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node; remove yellow or dead leaves at the base.
Pruning Plan
Regular pruning to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove spent flowers or damaged foliage.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears; disinfect tools before use.
Checklist
Check for dead/damaged leaves, sterilize tools, prune above leaf nodes, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim any circling roots, place in a new pot with fresh soil, water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for maintaining vigor and preventing root-bound conditions.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot, prepare fresh soil mix, trim roots if necessary, water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure proper drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture distribution; water early in the day to allow foliage to dry; avoid wetting leaves excessively to prevent fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or browning leaf edges in cold; scorching or leaf curl in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or brown; risk of frost damage in temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; cover if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or drooping; reduced vigor in extreme heat above 90°F (32°C).
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; ensure adequate water supply.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, water before feeding, avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they ingest coleus. The diterpenoids in the plant can cause discomfort, though severe toxicity is rare.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of coleus may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of diterpenoids. The plant is not typically life-threatening but can cause discomfort if consumed in large amounts.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicSolenostemon scutellarioides, commonly known as coleus, contains diterpenoids that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested in significant quantities. The plant is generally considered safe for topical use but may cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Coleus toxic to pets?
A: No, Coleus is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does Coleus require full sun?
A: Coleus prefers partial shade or filtered sunlight to maintain vibrant leaf colors.
Q: How often should Coleus be watered?
A: Water Coleus when the top inch of soil feels dry, ensuring good drainage to prevent root rot.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to partial sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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