Swallow Tails Coleus

Swallow Tails Coleus (Coleus 'Swallow Tails')

Swallow Tails Coleus (Coleus 'Swallow Tails') is a striking annual known for its elongated, wing-like leaves and bold mix of green, gold, and red tones. Its graceful form and vivid coloration bring texture and vibrancy to shaded gardens, containers, and borders, making it an exceptional choice for adding movement and contrast to any planting design.

Distinctive Features

Swallow Tails Coleus is instantly recognizable for its narrow, tapered leaves that resemble swallow wings in flight. The foliage blends tones of deep green, golden yellow, and rich red, offering dynamic color variation throughout the season. Its compact, bushy growth habit makes it ideal for container plantings, hanging baskets, and shaded garden beds where dramatic color and texture are desired.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Prefers partial to full shade; thrives in bright indirect or filtered light.
• Soil: Moist, fertile, well-drained soil with slightly acidic to neutral pH.
• Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy; water at the base to protect foliage.
• Humidity: Performs best in moderate to high humidity, indoors or out.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 10 to 11; grow as an annual or indoor plant in cooler regions.

Ideal Uses

• Containers: Perfect for planters and pots where its rich color and unique leaf shape stand out.
• Shaded Beds: Adds contrast and texture to low-light garden areas.
• Mixed Plantings: Complements ferns, impatiens, and other shade lovers in vibrant displays.
• Borders: Works beautifully along walkways or as edging in partial shade.

Low Maintenance Care

Swallow Tails Coleus grows easily with regular watering and light grooming to maintain fullness and continuous color.

• Watering: Water consistently during warm weather to prevent wilting.
• Pruning: Pinch or trim stems to encourage bushy, compact growth.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring for steady growth and vivid foliage.
• Winter Care: Treat as an annual or overwinter indoors in a bright, warm area.

Why Choose Swallow Tails Coleus?

This colorful, shade-tolerant coleus brings personality and charm to gardens and containers alike.

• Distinct Leaf Shape: Long, tapering leaves create elegant, feather-like movement.
• Vibrant Color: A dynamic blend of red, gold, and green enhances visual depth in shaded spaces.
• Low Maintenance: Easy to grow and forgiving for gardeners of all experience levels.
• Focal Point: Makes a bold statement in garden beds, pots, or hanging baskets.

Coleus 'Swallow Tails' combines vivid color, graceful form, and simple care, making it an outstanding addition for adding texture and beauty to any shaded or partially shaded setting.