Coleus

Coleus blumei

Well known since Victorian times, Coleus has sparked a revival of sorts with the availability of numerous named cultivars. Coleus is available from seed as well as cutting grown cultivars offering an endless array of colors and patterns. Most seed coleus prefer shade to light shade with many of the new cutting types tolerant of full sun. Coleus grows from 12 inches to 3 feet tall with habits ranging from mound shaped to spreading. It is a tender plant, not hardy in cold climates. Plants propagate easily from cuttings and make acceptable houseplants when given high light.