Coleus Scutellarioides

Description

Coleus Scutellarioides, also known as Plectranthus scutellarioides or Solenostemon scutellarioides, is a tropical perennial plant from the Lamiaceae family. It is native to Southeast Asia and is commonly grown for its brightly colored leaves that come in a wide range of colors and patterns.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The leaves of Coleus Scutellarioides are the main attraction of this plant. They come in a wide range of colors including green, pink, red, purple, and yellow, with different patterns and designs. The leaves can be either solid or variegated. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide, with a bushy and compact growth habit. It produces small, insignificant flowers that are usually removed to encourage more foliage growth.

Care Guide

Water: Coleus Scutellarioides prefers moist soil but can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry, and make sure the pot has proper drainage to prevent waterlogging.

Fertilization: Feed Coleus Scutellarioides with a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer).

Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix with a pH between 5.5 and 7.0. Coleus Scutellarioides can grow in a variety of soil types, but it prefers slightly acidic soil.

Sunlight: Coleus Scutellarioides prefers bright, indirect light but can also tolerate some shade. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves.

Hardiness Zones: Coleus Scutellarioides is a tropical plant and cannot tolerate frost. It is usually grown as an annual in colder climates or as a houseplant.

Common Pests & Diseases

Coleus Scutellarioides is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can be susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Root rot can occur if the plant is overwatered, while leaf drop can happen if the plant is exposed to cold temperatures.

Habitat

Coleus Scutellarioides is native to Southeast Asia, particularly in Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. It grows in tropical forests and is commonly found in gardens and parks as an ornamental plant.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Coleus Scutellarioides grow in full sun?

A: Coleus Scutellarioides prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate some sun. However, too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.

Q: How often should I water Coleus Scutellarioides?

A: Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry. Coleus Scutellarioides prefers moist soil but can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered.

Q: How often should I fertilize Coleus Scutellarioides?

A: Feed Coleus Scutellarioides with a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer).

Q: Can I grow Coleus Scutellarioides indoors?

A: Yes, Coleus Scutellarioides can be grown indoors as a houseplant as long as it receives bright, indirect light and is not exposed to cold drafts.

Related Plants

• Plectranthus argentatus
• Plectranthus barbatus
• Plectranthus ciliatus
• Plectranthus fruticosus
• Plectranthus neochilus

References

• “Coleus Scutellarioides.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=284794. Accessed 2 Nov. 2021.
• “Plectranthus Scutellarioides.” Plant Care Today, 28 Mar. 2021, plantcaretoday.com/coleus-plant-care.html. Accessed 2 Nov. 2021.
• “Solenostemon Scutellarioides.” Floridata, www.floridata.com/plant/966. Accessed 2 Nov. 2021.