Culture
Best grown in evenly moist, well-draining soil in part shade. Some cultivars tolerate more full sun. Hardy in Zones 10-11. Pinch back stems to encourage a more bushy habit. The blooms are typically not showy and can be removed so as not to detract from the foliage. Seed cultivars can be started indoors from seed 8-12 weeks before last frost date. Inexpensive starter plants (in small pots or flats) can be purchased from most nurseries in spring for beds and containers. Containers may be brought inside in fall before frost for overwintering. Similarly, favorite plants may be dug and potted in fall for overwintering as houseplants. Cuttings from favorite plants (easily rooted in a glass of water or in clean potting soil) can also be taken in fall for overwintering.
Noteworthy Characteristics
Plectranthus is a genus of about 350 species of annuals, evergreen perennials, semi-succulents and shrubs from Africa, Madagascar, Asia, Australasia and Pacific Islands. Commonly called coleus, hybrid cultivars are widely grown as ornamentals. An almost infinite number of leaf color combinations are available including most colors of the spectrum except true blue. Cultivars range in size from dwarf 6” tall plants to large mounded 3' tall plants. Four-sided stems are semi-succulent. Showy multi-colored leaves are generally ovate to oblong and toothed. Leaves frequently feature mixtures of colors in irregular patterns. Blue to white nettle-like flowers (more common on seed strains) bloom in racemes in summer to early fall, but are not showy and tend to visually detract from the symmetry and attractiveness of the plants.
Genus name comes from the Greek words plectron meaning "spur" and anthos meaning "flower" in reference to the spur-shaped flowers of some members of the genus.
'Uf0646' REDHEAD is a hybrid cultivar with excellent heat and sun tolerance, and can also maintain its rose-red vibrant color in the shade. It flowers later in the season than other cultivars, reducing the need to deadhead. REDHEAD can reach 4' tall and 2.5' wide when grown as an annual in ideal conditions. Plant patent number PP21585 applies to this cultivar.
Problems
No serious insect or disease problems. Watch for mealybugs and mites.
Uses
Borders where winter hardy. Containers or hanging baskets for decks or patios. Bedding plant for annual color. Houseplant.