Coleus in 6″Pot

A bushy, fast-growing tender perennial (grown as an annual in most climates) with square, semi-succulent stems. Height typically 30–90 cm (1–3 ft; dwarfs 15 cm/6 in, some cultivars to 1 m/3 ft), spread 30–90 cm. Leaves are the show: opposite, ovate to broadly lance-shaped (4–10 cm/1.5–4 in long, 3–6 cm wide), often velvety, with toothed, scalloped, ruffled, or deeply lobed margins. Color is extremely variable—combinations of green, chartreuse, yellow, orange, pink, red, burgundy, maroon, near-black, cream, and white in borders, veins, splashes, blotches, or margins; patterns shift with light. Flowers are small, blue-violet to white, in terminal spike-like racemes; they appear summer–fall but are usually pinched off because foliage is the attraction.

Quick care: bright indirect light to partial shade is ideal (traditional shade plant). Many modern cultivars tolerate 4–6 hrs morning sun; intense afternoon sun can scorch delicate leaves, while deep shade causes leggy growth and muted color. Prefers moist, rich, loose, well-draining soil (pH 6–7); amend beds with compost. Water regularly—keep soil evenly moist but not soggy; containers may need daily watering in heat. Wilts quickly when dry, but recovers. Loves warmth (21–30 °C/70–85 °F); stops growing below ∼10 °C (50 °F), frost kills it (hardy USDA 10–11). Feed monthly with balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength, or use slow-release at planting; avoid excess phosphorus (promotes flowers over foliage). Pinch stem tips often to encourage branching and a bushy habit; remove flower spikes as they appear to redirect energy to leaves. Propagate easily from 5–10 cm tip cuttings in water or moist soil (roots in 1–2 weeks), or from seed started indoors 8–10 weeks before last frost. Watch for mealybugs, aphids, spider mites, whiteflies; ensure airflow to prevent powdery mildew/downy mildew. Great for beds, borders, containers, hanging baskets, and as a houseplant in bright window.