This perennial to sub-shrub has an erect succulent squarish stems that form a bushy habit. It has multi-coloured ovate leaves that may have frilled margins and are a feature of the plant. The 2-lipped bluish flowers appear in an erect terminal cluster in summer.

Hardiness zones 10 to 12

Solenostemon scutellarioides is naturally found in the tropical forest of Malaysia to Java growing in well drained friable moist sandy loams that are rich and organic in a protected sunny to dappled light position and is drought and frost tender.

Coleus is grown for its colourful foliage and is planted in small or cottage gardens along perennial borders or used in tropical gardens for colour contrast. It is also mass planted for bedding displays in parks and large gardens, establishing in one season. This plant is also grown in pots and planter boxes or is used as an indoor specimen. In cool climates coleus are grown in conservatories and glasshouses. ID 1261

Solenostemon(sô-lee-nô-STEE-mon) scutellarioides(skew-tel-AH-ree-oy-dees)

Coleus = Greek, Ref. sheathed bundle of stamens

Lamiaceae(lay-mee-AY-see-ee)
(Labiatae)
Mint Family