Coleus Plant Growing & Care Guide for Gardeners

Article by Dean Ravenscroft, Ph.D. - Updated 20th Nov 2023

In this Gardener's HQ guide, we'll explore cultivating Coleus plants in your garden, indoor spaces, and other settings.

Painted Nettle, and Flame Nettle: Cultivation & Garden Use

Plants from the Coleus plant genus are low growing and bushy half hardy perennials.

It is often grown in the garden as a half hardy annual.

Coleus by St0rmz.

They have beautiful multicoloured leaves in colours such as black, orange, gold, pink and red. they reach a height of between 30 and 90 cm (1 to 3 feet).

Coleus-1 by Tim Green aka atoach.

Coleus is also known by the common names of Painted nettle or Flame nettle.

Commonly Grown Coleus Species

Coleus forskohlii Syn. Coleus barbatus Syn. Plectranthus barbatus

Coleus forskohlii (Brazilian Boldo / Abyssinian Coleus / Blue Spur Flower), photograph by Dinesh Valke; CC.

Coleus scutellarioides

Coleus scutellarioides (Coleus / Painted Nettle), picture by Teresa Grau Ros; CC.

How to Grow Painted Nettle and other Coleus species

It is easiest to start the seedlings of genus plants indoors. They should be started about three months before they are due to be put out.

They should be sown onto the surface and grown in the light at about 18 to 24 degrees Centigrade 64 to 75°F).

They should take around two to three weeks to germinate.

Once seedlings of Painted nettles are established, they should be transplanted at about 20 cm (8 inches; Dwarfs) or 40 cm (16 inches; taller varieties) apart in mid spring, when there is no chance of a frost.

Ideally they should be grown in a shady area that has a moist loamy soil.

Caring for Coleus in the Garden

It is best to pinch back juvenile plants to promote branching.

Coleus should be watered in dry spells. and requires a high nitrogen fertilizer once a month.

Cuttings can be took in the late summer or autumn.

Common Questions

How many members does the Coleus genus have?

The Coleus genus includes approximately 300 species known for their vibrant and variable foliage.

Do members of Coleus make a good garden or landscaping plant?

Yes, Coleus plants are excellent for adding bold, tropical colors to gardens and containers, and their striking foliage brightens up shady areas.

Which Coleus species are most frequently grown by gardeners?

The most frequently grown species is Coleus scutellarioides, popular for its wide range of vibrant leaf colors and patterns.

Are members of the Coleus plant genus fragrant?

No, Coleus plants are not known for their fragrance, but for their brilliantly colored and variegated leaves.

What is the perfect location to grow Coleus?

Coleus plants prefer shade to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. They can also be grown indoors with bright, indirect light.

Is Coleus invasive in the USA?

Currently, Coleus is not considered invasive in the USA. However, it can spread in suitable conditions if not managed properly.

How do I remove Coleus plants from my garden?

Coleus is easily removed by hand-pulling. Regular pruning can also help control its spread and promotes bushier growth.

Summary

The Coleus genus, part of the Lamiaceae family, originates from tropical regions in Africa and Asia. These perennial plants, often grown as annuals in cooler climates, are admired for their vibrant, patterned foliage rather than their flowers, adding a splash of color to shady areas.

To grow Coleus, plant them in a shaded to partially shaded location with well-drained soil. They can be grown from seeds or cuttings sown in the spring. Regular watering and feeding are necessary for optimal growth. Pinch back the tips of the plants to encourage bushier growth and remove flower spikes to maintain the foliage's vibrancy.

I hope that you enjoyed this guide on how to grow Coleus plants. You may also enjoy the following Gardener's HQ Lamiaceae growing guides: How to grow Lavandula angustifolia and Perilla plants.