Coleus Plant Coleus scutellarioides, also known as coleus or skullcap, is a perennial herb in the mint family. It is native to tropical Africa and Asia, and has been introduced to other parts of the world. The plant is grown for its ornamental leaves, which are variable in color and pattern. The leaves are used in traditional medicine.
Coleus scutellarioides is a herbaceous perennial plant that grows to 50–75 cm (20–30 in) tall. The leaves are opposite, ovate to lanceolate, 5–12 cm (2–4.5 in) long and 2.5–7 cm (1–3 in) broad, with a toothed margin. The flowers are borne in terminal spikes, each flower blue or violet, 2–3 mm (0.079–0.118 in) long. The fruit is a four-lobed capsule.
The plant is native to tropical Africa and Asia, from Ethiopia and Kenya in the east to India in the west. It has been introduced to other parts of the world, including Australia, North and South America, and the Pacific Islands.
Coleus scutellarioides is grown for its ornamental leaves. The leaves are variable in color and pattern, and can be green, purple, or variegated. The plant is also used in traditional medicine.
Benefits:
Coleus scutellarioides is a perennial herb in the mint family. It is native to tropical Africa and Asia, and has been introduced to other parts of the world. The plant is grown for its ornamental leaves, which are variable in color and pattern. The leaves are used in traditional medicine.
In traditional medicine, coleus is used to treat a variety of conditions, including hypertension, asthma, and epilepsy. The leaves are eaten raw or cooked, and are used to make a tea. The tea is used to treat stomachache, diarrhea, and vomiting. The leaves are also used topically to treat skin conditions.
Coleus scutellarioides is considered to be safe when taken in the recommended doses. However, large doses may cause vomiting and diarrhea. The plant should not be used by pregnant or breastfeeding women, or by children under the age of 12.
Some of the potential benefits associated with Coleus scutellarioides include:
-Treating hypertension
-Reducing asthma symptoms
-Controlling epilepsy
-Easing stomachache
-Relieving diarrhea
-Reducing vomiting
-Treating skin conditions
When to Water:
Water coleus when the soil feels dry to the touch. Allow the soil to dry out somewhat between watering. Water deeply, so that water reaches the roots.
Fertilizer:
Fertilize coleus every two to four weeks with a balanced fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer according to the package directions.
Pruning:
Pruning is not necessary, but you can trim coleus to shape it, or to remove any damaged or diseased leaves.Growing season
Growing season:
Coleus Plant is a tropical plant, and does not tolerate frost. In cooler climates, it can be grown as an annual. In warm climates, it can be grown as a perennial.
Ideal Temperature:
Coleus Plant prefers warm temperatures. It will tolerate some shade, but does best in full sun.
Soil requirement:
Coleus Plant prefers well-drained, sandy soil.
Pests and Diseases:
Coleus scutellarioides is susceptible to root rot, powdery mildew, and leaf spot. Aphids, whiteflies, and mealybugs can also be a problem.
Ideal location
Coleus scutellarioides is a tropical plant, and does best in full sun. It can tolerate some shade, but does not tolerate frost.
Propagation:
Coleus scutellarioides can be propagated by seed, or by taking stem cuttings.
Seed:
Sow coleus seeds indoors, eight to 10 weeks before the last frost date. Sow the seeds on the surface of the soil, and press them gently into the soil. Keep the soil moist, but not wet. The seeds will germinate in 14-21 days.
Stem cuttings:
Take stem cuttings from a healthy plant in spring or summer. Cut off a 4-inch (10 cm) piece of stem, and remove the lower leaves. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone, and plant it in a pot of moistened potting mix. Keep the pot in a warm, sunny location. The cuttings will root in two to four weeks.