The Coleus Guide

Coleus belongs to the mint family (Lamiaceae) and is native to Southeast Asia and Malaysia. The modern ornamental varieties are hybrids of Plectranthus scutellarioides (formerly Solenostemon or Coleus blumei), bred for their colorful and variegated leaves. Coleus can be upright or trailing, with some varieties reaching heights of up to 3 feet, while others stay compact and low to the ground.

Popular cultivars include Coleus 'Dappled Apple' with lime green leaves splashed with burgundy, Coleus 'Inky Fingers' with small, lobed purple-black leaves edged in green, and Coleus 'Dark Star', a dramatic selection with deep purple foliage. Coleus 'Swallow Tails' and Coleus 'Trailing Rose' are excellent trailing forms for hanging baskets or edging. Other garden favorites include Coleus 'Gays Delight', 'Kiwi Fern', 'Hurricane Jenny', and 'Swinging Linda', each offering a distinct pattern and hue.

Whether planted alone or with companion plants, Coleus brings bold texture and color to both sun and shade gardens.

Although Coleus is often used as an annual in cooler regions, it’s a tropical perennial that will thrive year-round in warm climates or indoors with the right care. Here are the basics to get your plants off to a good start:

• USDA Hardiness Zones: Perennial in Zones 10–11; grown as an annual elsewhere.
• Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. It tolerates a range of soil types if drainage is good.
• Sunlight: Most Coleus varieties prefer part shade, especially in hot climates. Newer sun-tolerant cultivars can handle full sun with sufficient moisture.
• Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy. Containers may require daily watering in hot weather.
• Spacing: Space plants 12–18 inches apart to allow for mature growth and airflow.
• Planting Time: Plant outdoors after the danger of frost has passed. Coleus is sensitive to cold temperatures.

To plant, loosen the soil, mix in compost, and plant at the same depth as in the container. Water thoroughly and mulch to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

With just a little care, Coleus will reward you with continuous, colorful growth all season—or year-round indoors:

• Watering: Keep soil evenly moist. Avoid allowing the plant to dry out completely, especially in containers.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2–4 weeks during the growing season. Container plants may require more frequent feeding.
• Pinching & Pruning: Pinch back the tips regularly to encourage bushier growth and prevent legginess. Remove flower spikes as they appear to keep the foliage lush.
• Overwintering: Bring plants indoors before temperatures dip below 50°F. Place in bright, indirect light and reduce watering during winter.
• Propagation: Easily propagated from stem cuttings in water or soil. Ideal for saving favorite varieties year after year.
• Pests & Diseases: Watch for aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites indoors. Root rot may occur in poorly drained soil.

Coleus is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of plants and garden styles. Use its bold foliage to create visual interest and contrast:

• Shade Gardens: Brighten shady corners with vibrant foliage.
• Container Gardens: Combine upright varieties like Coleus 'Dark Star' with trailing types like Coleus 'Trailing Rose' for a stunning potted display.
• Mixed Borders: Pair with caladium, impatiens, or ferns for a rich, tropical feel.
• Edging & Ground Cover: Compact and trailing types work well as colorful borders or low-growing filler.
• Indoor Decor: Smaller varieties can thrive as houseplants in bright, indirect light.

For a cohesive look, consider pairing Coleus with plants that contrast in texture or color, such as dusty miller, sweet potato vine, begonias, or ornamental grasses.

• Are Coleus perennials? Coleus is a tender perennial in warm climates (Zones 10–11) but is usually grown as an annual elsewhere.
• Do deer eat Coleus? Coleus is not highly deer-resistant and may be nibbled in areas with high deer population.
• How to propagate Coleus? Take stem cuttings and root them in water or moist soil. It’s easy and reliable.
• Is Coleus toxic to cats? Yes, Coleus is mildly toxic to cats and may cause vomiting or skin irritation if ingested.
• Is Coleus toxic to dogs? Yes, Coleus is also toxic to dogs and can cause similar symptoms.
• Can Coleus grow indoors? Absolutely. Coleus can be grown indoors in containers with bright, indirect light and regular watering.
• Does Coleus like sun or shade? Most Coleus prefers part shade, but many newer varieties tolerate or thrive in full sun with proper moisture.
• How to grow Coleus? Plant in well-drained soil, water regularly, pinch for fullness, and provide sun or shade depending on the variety.