Coleus bushy

Coleus is a member of the mint family, with its characteristic square stems and oppositely arranged leaves. It is actually a heat-loving herbaceous perennial but is usually treated as an annual.

They have some of the most stunningly coloured foliage in combinations of green, yellow, pink, red, maroon, etc. Coleus also have a wide variety of leaf sizes and overall shapes.

This means that no matter what area you are looking to put coleus, you can find one that will be perfect. These plants are great for adding colour in the garden (or home), especially in those dark, drab-looking corners.

Planting And Care

Where the growing season is long, pinch the tips of the stems regularly to encourage branching and compact growth.When growing coleus, keep in mind that these beauties can grow rapidly. Plant coleus close together as bedding plants or tuck them into baskets and containers for a fast growing and spectacular addition.Another factor in coleus care is overwintering, as these plants, which are considered tender annuals, are highly susceptible to cold temperatures.

Coleus Care

Coleus plants should be grown in the garden in bright, indirect light, or in partial shade. The lower growing dwarf varieties (6-12 inch) will create a colourful border, or you can use the taller (up to 36 ) types as a dramatic background planting.

Many Coleus plants will survive full sun exposure but the foliage colour is often enhanced when they are grown in the shade.
Coleus are also quite striking when they are planted in a container and grown as a house plant.By removing the flower spikes as they develop, and keeping the plant pinched back, the Coleus can be kept growing as a perennial for several seasons.