About Coleus
Coleus is an all-around winner for any garden, thanks to the introduction of hardier, leafier varieties. Once thought of as a demanding, shade-only plant, hybridizers and coleus lovers have created beautiful cultivars not only for those shady areas but sunny locations too.
History
In the 1800's, coleus was all the rage for Victorian gardens. It sold for high prices at auctions and was often seen gracing windowsills and porches. Because the plants were limited to shade and weren't as robust as the ones we have today, it was eventually relegated from the main attraction to borders and accents. Over the years, due to intense breeding by coleus enthusiasts, this member of the mint family evolved from a difficult, costly plant to one that is inexpensive and easy to care for. The rainbow of colors and variety of leaf shapes, such as variegated, elongated and fringed, make this a gardener's delight.
Colors
Coleus is unusual in that its beauty comes from the foliage rather than the flower. Color options are diverse and exciting for the avid gardener. With hundreds of varieties--and some sources boasting over a thousand--it can be quite a task choosing your plants. To add to the confusion, there is no official registry for the many names you will come across. Simply choose the cultivars that appeal most to you. Have fun mixing and matching multi-colored leaves of yellow, green, red, bronze and pink, from light shades to dark. There is a purple cultivar that is so rich that at a distance it can be mistaken for black. Depending on how you choose to care for your plant, with certain varieties you can add some blue to the scene by letting it flower.
Care
Where you place your coleus will depend on what kind you have. Sun coleus will need a bright spot, while others will need shade most of the day. Coleus grows well in pots, or you can plant it in an alkaline soil with good drainage. Too much water will cause root and stem rot. Do not over fertilize and dilute liquid solutions. Bone meal or rabbit droppings work well. While flowering is an option, "pinching" is encouraged for optimal foliage production. Removing the flowers will give you a denser and more colorful plant. Coleus is a head-turner from spring to the first frost. However, even a light frost will kill it.
Propagation
Root your cuttings in water at least a month before the first expected frost. Leave about 6 inches of stem and remove leaves and flower buds. Immerse in water. Once the roots have formed, your cuttings are ready for a container with quality potting mix. Make sure they get some sun. Move them back outside in the spring once the threat of frost is gone. You can also start your coleus from seed.
Experiment
If you don't know which variety of coleus you have, you may need to experiment to see what kind of light it needs. Too much sun will bleach the foliage, while too little will cause the color to darken or become more muted. Coleus can also change color on you, as one branch may develop leaves different from the rest of the plant. This can be a great opportunity because now you have a mutant to snip off and start a whole new plant with. Have fun. You may end up with your very own creation to name and share--or sell to others.
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