Coleus — Growing reference
| Scientific name | Plectranthus scutellarioides |
|---|---|
| Seed germination (days) | 10–21 |
| Soil temperature for germination (°C) | 18.3–23.9 |
| First harvest or flowering (days) | 60–90 |
| Measured from | Seed |
| Plant spacing (cm) | 30.5–45.7 |
| Mature height (cm) | 30.5–91.4 |
| Mature spread (cm) | 30.5–61 |
| USDA hardiness zones | 10–12 |
| Light | Shade |
| Water | Moderate |
| Sowing method | indoor-start |
Growing directions
Start seeds indoors or root cuttings easily in water; coleus is one of the most versatile and vividly colored foliage plants for shade and part-shade gardens, producing spectacular leaves in virtually every color combination imaginable — red, burgundy, orange, yellow, lime, pink, purple, bronze, and intricate multicolored patterns and textures. Modern sun-tolerant hybrids extend its use to full sun, but traditional coleus is happiest with morning sun and afternoon shade or dappled light under trees, where its colors often intensify beautifully. It is a workhorse of summer container gardening and shade bedding. Pinch the small flower spikes that develop in late summer to maintain bushy growth and color; once allowed to flower and set seed, foliage quality declines. In zone 9–11 old plants often survive mild winters and resprout in spring; take cuttings in fall to overwinter indoors in colder zones.
Source and local conditions
Typical planning ranges from OpenPlantDB (CC0). Cultivar, climate, season and growing method can change these values. Confirm the seed label and local guidance before planting.
Source & verification
OpenPlantDB · CC0