coleus

Coleus is commonly grown as an ornamental foliage plant and is scientifically classified as Plectranthus scutellarioides, with the names Solenostemon scutellarioides and Coleus blumei used previously. It belongs to the mint family, Lamiaceae, and is native to tropical regions of Africa and Asia. In temperate regions, it is grown as an annual or treated as a tender perennial in warm climates.

The plant is a herbaceous species with square stems and opposite leaves. Leaves are typically large, often with serrated margins, and display a wide range of colors and patterns, including greens, purples, pinks, and reds, sometimes with contrasting veins. Growth habit ranges from compact to more expansive, depending on cultivar and growing conditions.

Coleus prefers warm temperatures and protection from frost. It generally thrives in bright, indirect light to partial sun; some cultivars tolerate more sun if moisture is ample. The plant requires well-drained, fertile soil and regular watering to keep the soil evenly moist. It benefits from light feeding and can be pruned to maintain bushy growth. In hot, dry conditions, it may become leggy and stressed.

Propagation is straightforward via stem cuttings or layering, with cuttings rooting readily in damp medium. Coleus is widely used in garden beds, borders, containers, and hanging baskets for its vibrant foliage. Common pests include aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites, while powdery mildew can occur in humid conditions. Taxonomically, reclassifications have moved many cultivars from Coleus to Plectranthus, though the old cultivar names continue to be used in horticulture. It is not generally grown for culinary use.