A Complete Growing Guide for Plectranthus scutellarioides

Coleus is a showstopper in the garden, grown more for its wildly colorful foliage than its flowers. Whether spilling out of containers or brightening up shady garden corners, coleus is a vibrant, easy-care annual (or tender perennial in warm climates) that brings bold texture and hues to any planting scheme. If you’re ready to add a splash of drama to your garden, here’s everything you need to know to grow stunning coleus from the ground up.

What Is Coleus?

Coleus (Solenostemon scutellarioides, also known as Plectranthus or Coleus blumei) is a tropical plant with vivid leaves in a dizzying array of patterns and colors—ranging from lime green to deep burgundy, pink, red, orange, and yellow. Although it may produce tiny flower spikes, these are typically pinched off to keep the plant bushy and focused on its prized foliage. It’s commonly grown as an annual in most zones but can be overwintered indoors or treated as a perennial in USDA Zones 10 and 11.

Where to Plant Coleus

Coleus prefers partial shade to full shade, especially in hot climates, but many newer varieties are sun-tolerant if kept well-watered. This makes them perfect for shade gardens, porch containers, or underplanting beneath trees. Use them as border edgers, filler plants in mixed pots, or even as bold indoor houseplants.

• Hardiness: USDA Zones 10–11 (grown as an annual elsewhere)
• Light: Partial shade to filtered sun; full sun varieties available
• Soil: Moist, well-draining, and rich in organic matter

When to Plant Coleus

Plant coleus outdoors after the danger of frost has passed and nighttime temperatures are consistently above 50°F (10°C). If starting from seed indoors, sow 8–10 weeks before your last expected frost.

• Sow seeds indoors: Late winter to early spring
• Transplant outdoors: After the last frost date
• Direct sowing: Not recommended due to delicate seedlings

How to Plant Coleus

You can grow coleus from seeds, cuttings, or transplants. Most gardeners opt for nursery-grown starts or cuttings for quicker color and easier establishment.

From Transplants or Starts:

1. Space plants 10–14 inches apart.
2. Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball.
3. Plant at the same depth as in the container.
4. Water thoroughly and mulch lightly to retain moisture.

From Seed:

1. Press seeds into moist seed-starting mix; do not cover (they need light to germinate).
2. Maintain warmth and humidity—around 70–75°F.
3. Expect germination in 10–14 days.
4. Transplant when seedlings have several true leaves.

How to Care for Coleus

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy. Container plants may need daily watering in hot weather. Mulch garden plants to help retain moisture.

Feeding

Feed with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 2–4 weeks during the growing season to promote lush foliage.

Pinching & Pruning

Pinch back the tips regularly to encourage bushiness and prevent legginess. Remove any flower spikes to redirect energy into leaf growth.

Overwintering

In cooler zones, coleus can be brought indoors in fall:

• Pot up healthy plants before the first frost.
• Keep in a bright, warm window.
• Cuttings can also be rooted in water and potted up for next spring.

Common Pests and Problems

Coleus is generally easygoing but can encounter:

• Aphids and whiteflies
• Fungal diseases if overwatered or overcrowded
• Leaf scorch in full sun without adequate water

Use insecticidal soap for pests and avoid wetting foliage to prevent mildew.

Garden Uses for Coleus

• Container gardens – especially shady patios
• Mass plantings for dramatic color blocks
• Mixed borders as a filler or accent
• Indoor décor as a houseplant or window box beauty

The endless color combinations make coleus a versatile, must-have addition to gardens of any size.

Master Gardener Tips

• Color alert: Coleus colors may fade in too much sun or revert in low light—watch for changes and adjust placement accordingly.
• Propagation power: Coleus is one of the easiest plants to root—snip a stem, place in water, and watch roots appear in days.
• Pinch often: Don’t be shy! Frequent pinching keeps coleus compact, lush, and thriving.

Want to grow a garden that turns heads? Coleus might just be the bold, brilliant touch your beds or containers are missing.