Types of Coleus and Their Colors

Coleus is a popular foliage plant grown for its vividly colored leaves, which come in an astonishing range of patterns, shapes, and hues. From deep burgundy and bright lime to soft pink and electric purple, coleus can add drama to garden beds, containers, and indoor spaces. This guide covers the main types of coleus and the colors you can expect, helping you choose the right varieties for your space and care for them successfully.

What You’ll Need

• Coleus plants or seeds (choose from the types described below)
• Well-draining potting mix or garden soil amended with compost
• Containers with drainage holes (if growing in pots)
• Watering can or hose
• Balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (optional)
• Pruning shears or scissors
• Shade cloth or a location with filtered light (if your garden is very sunny)

Step-by-Step

1. Learn the main leaf shapes. Coleus leaves come in several forms: some are heart-shaped, others are oval, and some are deeply lobed or frilly. The leaf shape often influences how the colors are displayed. For example, large, smooth leaves show off bold color blocks, while ruffled or serrated leaves create a more textured look.
2. Understand the color categories. Coleus colors fall into a few broad groups: solid colors, bicolor (two distinct colors), tricolor (three colors), and multicolor (more than three). Within these groups, you’ll find shades of green, chartreuse (yellow-green), pink, red, burgundy, purple, orange, and even near-black.
3. Explore the classic green-and-white types. Some coleus have green leaves edged or splashed with white or cream. These are often called ‘green on green’ or ‘variegated’ types. They brighten shady spots and pair well with darker foliage plants. Look for varieties with names like ‘Green Giant’ or ‘Wasabi’ (though ‘Wasabi’ is actually chartreuse).
4. Discover the chartreuse and lime varieties. These coleus have bright, yellow-green leaves that almost glow in the shade. They are excellent for adding a pop of color to dark corners. Examples include ‘Lime Time’ and ‘Electric Lime’. These types often have solid color or subtle veining.
5. Appreciate the pink and rose types. Many coleus feature pink, rose, or magenta tones. Some have solid pink leaves, while others have pink centers with green edges or vice versa. ‘Pink Chaos’ and ‘Pineapple Splash’ (which has pink and green) are popular choices. These colors stand out well in containers.
6. Look at the red and burgundy types. These are among the most striking. Leaves can be deep ruby red, brick red, or dark burgundy, often with a velvety texture. ‘Red Head’ and ‘Burgundy Wedding Train’ are examples. They provide strong contrast in the garden.
7. Consider the purple and near-black types. Some coleus have very dark purple or almost black leaves. These are dramatic and pair well with bright flowers. ‘Black Dragon’ and ‘Purple Emperor’ are known for their deep hues. They may appear almost solid in color but often have a subtle sheen.
8. Mix patterns for maximum impact. Many coleus are not just one color but have intricate patterns: veins in a contrasting color, edges that differ from the center, or random splashes. For example, ‘Kong’ series coleus have huge leaves with multiple colors. ‘Wizard’ series are more compact and come in many patterns.
9. Choose the right type for your light. Coleus generally prefer bright, indirect light or morning sun with afternoon shade. In too much direct sun, colors may fade or bleach. In too little light, colors become dull and the plant may get leggy. If you have a very sunny spot, look for sun-tolerant varieties like ‘ColorBlaze’ series, which handle more sun.
10. Plant and care for your coleus. Plant coleus after the last frost in spring, spacing them about one to two feet apart depending on the variety (check the tag). Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. Pinch back the growing tips when the plant is young to encourage bushiness. Remove flower spikes as they appear to keep the plant focusing on foliage.
11. Overwinter indoors if desired. Coleus are tender perennials, meaning they are not frost-hardy. You can take cuttings in late summer and root them in water, or dig up the whole plant and pot it to grow indoors over winter. Place in a bright window and reduce watering.

Common Mistakes

• Planting in full sun without acclimation. Even sun-tolerant coleus need gradual exposure to intense sun. Sudden full sun can scorch leaves.
• Overwatering. Coleus like moisture but not waterlogged soil. Overwatering can cause root rot. Always check the top inch of soil before watering.
• Allowing flowers to develop. If you let coleus flower, the plant will put energy into seed production, and leaf color may become less vibrant. Pinch off flower buds as they form.
• Neglecting to pinch. Without pinching, coleus can become tall and leggy with sparse foliage. Regular pinching promotes a full, bushy plant.
• Choosing the wrong variety for your light. Some coleus are shade-loving, others sun-tolerant. Matching the variety to your site is key to good color.

Tips

• Start from cuttings. Coleus root easily in water or moist soil. You can multiply your favorite varieties for free.
• Use coleus as a thriller in containers. Their bold colors make them excellent focal points in mixed pots, combined with trailing plants and fillers.
• Group coleus with complementary colors. For example, pair purple-leaved coleus with yellow marigolds, or lime coleus with red begonias.
• Feed lightly. Too much fertilizer can cause leaves to lose their intense color. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength every few weeks during the growing season.
• Protect from strong wind. Some large-leaved varieties can be damaged by wind, so plant in a sheltered spot.

Troubleshooting

• Leaves are fading or turning green. This usually means too much sun or too little light. Move the plant to a spot with filtered light or adjust its exposure. Also, ensure you are pinching off flowers.
• Leaves are curling or wilting. Could be underwatering or overwatering. Check the soil moisture. If the soil is dry, water thoroughly. If it’s soggy, let it dry out and improve drainage.
• Leggy growth. Pinch back the stems to encourage branching. Also, make sure the plant is getting enough light; too little light causes stretching.
• Pests like aphids or spider mites. These can be washed off with a strong stream of water or treated with insecticidal soap. Keep the plant healthy to resist pests.
• Leaf edges are brown and crispy. This may be from low humidity or salt buildup from fertilizer. Mist the plant or place a humidity tray nearby, and flush the soil with water occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can coleus grow indoors?
A: Yes, coleus can grow indoors as a houseplant if given bright, indirect light and consistent moisture. They may need extra humidity in dry rooms.

Q: Do coleus need full sun?
A: Most coleus prefer partial shade or filtered sun, but many modern varieties are bred to tolerate more sun. Check the tag for your specific variety.

Q: How often should I water coleus?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. This may be daily in hot weather or every few days in cooler conditions. Always avoid letting the soil dry out completely.

Q: Why is my coleus losing its color?
A: Color loss is often due to insufficient light, too much fertilizer, or allowing flowers to develop. Adjust light, reduce feeding, and pinch off flower buds.

Q: Can I propagate coleus from cuttings?
A: Yes, take a four to six inch cutting, remove the lower leaves, and place it in water or moist potting mix. Roots usually appear within a couple of weeks.

Q: Are coleus annuals or perennials?
A: Coleus are tender perennials, meaning they are perennial in warm climates without frost, but are usually grown as annuals in cooler regions. You can overwinter them indoors.