Plant Passport
Coleus
Coleus scutellarioides
LightBright
Water7-10d
PetCheck
PP PLEC TRAN THUS
Issued 2026 · Valid while cared for
Coleus
Siernetel
Coleus scutellarioides
Also known as Plectranthus scutellarioides, Solenostemon scutellarioides
“I am all colour and speed; pinch me often and I stay full.”
colorful foliagebalcony friendlyfast growingbright windowcompact
- Light
- Bright light
- Water
- Keep lightly moist
- Pet safety
- Mildly toxic
- This month
- Finish the strongest growth flush with one more light feed. Review support or pruning needs for the bushy shape before tired leaves hide pests Cue: Soft square stems with vivid leaves in red.
August care tip
Finish the strongest growth flush with one more light feed. Review support or pruning needs for the bushy shape before tired leaves hide pests Cue: Soft square stems with vivid leaves in red.
Quick Care Summary
- Light
- Bright light
- Water
- Keep lightly moist
- Placement
- Best in a sunny windowsill, bright room or sheltered summer balcony.
- Temperature
- 12–30°C
- Humidity
- moderate
Free printable Plant Passport card
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Plant Passport
Coleus
LightBright
Water7-10d
Botanical stake card
- Format
- 150 x 25mm
- Best for
- Slim plant stakes and gift pots
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View holders →Detailed Care Guide
Watering Method
Water carefully and keep the mix lightly moist without making it soggy; never leave the pot standing in water.
Soil Mix
Light potting mix with perlite; terrarium types need moisture without stagnant roots.
Repotting
Repot or refresh in spring; short-lived colourful plants can also be restarted from cuttings.
Pruning
Pinch tips regularly for a fuller plant and remove spent flowers or weak stems.
Pot Preference
A pot with drainage; small colourful plants often prefer a snug pot.
Fertilizing
Feed lightly every 3-4 weeks from April to September; fast plants respond to regular weak feeding.
Draft Sensitivity
Keep above 12 C and away from cold draughts.
Sources consulted
- powo.science.kew.org
- www.aspca.org
- www.rhs.org.uk
Room Placement
Window Direction
East, west or filtered south with strong brightness.
Best Room
sunny windowsill, bright room or sheltered summer balcony
Monthly Care Calendar
Aug (now)
Finish the strongest growth flush with one more light feed. Review support or pruning needs for the bushy shape before tired leaves hide pests Cue: Soft square stems with vivid leaves in red.
Sep
Start reducing fertilizer and stretch watering as nights cool. Move Coleus closer to the brightest indirect position before autumn light drops Cue: Soft square stems with vivid leaves in red.
Oct
Stop feeding and prepare for heating season. Keep temperature steady and avoid cold drafts Cue: Soft square stems with vivid leaves in red.
Nov
Winter risk check: test soil before watering, inspect soft square stems with vivid leaves in red, and keep the pot draining freely while growth slows Cue: Soft square stems with vivid leaves in red.
Watering Schedule
- Summer
- Every 5 days
- Winter
- Every 10 days
Feel the mix and keep the mix lightly moist without making it soggy.
Common Problems
Propagation
stem cuttings in waterstem cuttings in soileasyspring
Take small cuttings with at least one node during active growth and keep them warm and lightly moist until rooted.
Pests & Diseases
Aphids
Early signs
Clusters on tender new shoots and sticky residue.
Treatment
Rinse off and repeat treatment weekly while pruning weak tips.
Spider mites
Early signs
Fine webbing and pale speckles on dry stressed foliage.
Treatment
Raise humidity where appropriate and treat repeatedly.
Buying Tips
Choose Coleus with compact fresh growth and no grey mildew, sticky residue or collapsing stems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Fun Facts
Coleus is easiest to keep attractive when you renew it before old stems become tired.
Origin & Natural Habitat
Warm, bright habitats where moisture is present but air still moves around soft growth.
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