Coleus, Flame Nettle (Coleus × hybridus)

Coleus, Flame Nettle
Scientific Name: Coleus × hybridus Hort. ex Cobeau
Synonym: Solenostemon scutellarioides
Family: Lamiaceae

Show Larger Picture Recommended Temperature Zone:
sunset: All zones as annual
USDA: All zones as annual

Frost Tolerance: Tender in Phoenix
Heat Tolerance: Light shade to shade in Phoenix, still questionable resistance
Sun Exposure: Light shade
Origin: Hybrid of mostly Indonesian species
Growth Habits: Deciduous perennial grown as tender annual, up to 4 feet tall (1.2 m) but generally around 1 foot tall (30 cm), 8 to 12 inches spread (20 to 30 cm)
Watering Needs: Regular water, does better with moist soil rich in organic matter
Propagation: Seeds, cuttings in summer

Coleus are good edging plants as well as flower beds and containers. They look good with other annuals with similar growing preferences like begonias, impatiens or browallias.

Cultural Practices:
Feed occasionally during the growing season, pinch the flower buds to keep the plants bushy, and beware of snails and slugs.

Propagation:
The seeds are small and should be started indoors 10 weeks before planting. Germination takes one to two weeks at 70-85°F (21 to 29°C) to occur. The seeds should not be covered. It might be advantageous to put the pot in a plastic bag to maintain humidity. Transplant 10 week old seedlings 1 foot apart (30 cm) after the last frost. Pinch the young plants to encourage bushiness.

The cuttings taken in summer root easily in water.

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