Coleus

Plectranthus scutellarioides

Coleus

Family: Lamiaceae

Genus: Plectreanthus 

Species: scutellarioides

Cultivars: Chocolate covered cherry, Kong mosaic, Mainstreet LA rambla 2020

Common names: Coleus, Painted Nettle

Difficulty: Medium (Indoors), Low (Outdoors)

Description: This sun loving burst of color has over 150 varieties! While we only sell 3 currently, it comes in every color and pattern you can think of! Indoors, it makes for a great splash of color if you can give it enough light. Outdoors, in full sun, it will grow aggressively! It grows long spikes of flowers that only add to the color! 

Mature size: This species indoors will grow at a slower pace and will get up to 1 foot tall and wide in a year. Outdoors, expect the growth to be aggressive, easily growing to 3 feet tall in a year with enough light and nutrition. This plant is a tender perennial, but in zones 10 and up, will be a large shrub getting up to 15 feet tall and wide. 

Light: Bright light. Direct sunlight ok and encouraged! If grown indoors, use a grow light or grow on a window seal facing south or west. Outdoors, pick a sunny location. There is no such thing as too much light for these plants. 

Water: Allow to try 25-50% through. It is not drought tolerant; it will wilt and drop leaves if too dry. Water thoroughly when you do water. 

Temperature: Ideal between 60-95 degrees Fahrenheit. Cold tolerant to 35 degrees.  

Humidity: This tropical native will do fine with any levels of humidity, as humans have cultivated it to be tolerant for landscaping. 

Soil: A rich airy mix with decent water retention is best for all Tradescantia. We use 2-parts coco coir, 2-parts perlite, 1-part sand, 1-part vermiculite, 1 part bark, ½-part worm casting.

Nutrition: This plant should be fed with a balanced fertilizer at half recommended dose on a monthly basis. Fertilize year-round if grown under grow lights, or May-September if grown by natural light. 

Repotting: This plant should be repotted annually or when roots are busting out of the bottom to excess. This plant requires drainage in all pots.  

Toxicity: Toxic to dogs and cats, causing burns and possible nervus system damage. Highly Poisonous to humans, dogs, and cats, seek immediate medical care if ingested.   

Native to: Southeast Asia through Northern Australia. Although, what we have in our homes and gardens are man-made. 

Companion Animals: This should NEVER be put in an animal habitat! It is moderately toxic and highly poisonous.