SOLENOSTEMON SCUTELLARIOIDES

Coleus’

FAMILY: Coleus

USES: Grown for its bright multi coloured foliage. Does well en masse, in borders, pots, hanging baskets, window boxes, planters or containers.

SIZE: Grows up to 60cm tall with a 45cm spread. Fast growing.

LOCATION: Full sun to partial shade. Best in lightly dappled shade. Requires protection from direct sea wind or hot, dry desert wind both of which may cause leaf burn.

SOIL: Best in an organically enriched free draining fertile soil with a pH 5.6 – 7.5, acidic to neutral.

FERTILISER: Apply a slow release 9:2:6 NPK with trace elements every two months to increase flowering starting when flower buds appear. Over fertilisation will lead to dull leaf colour and reduced vigour. Watch out for nutrient deficiency if soil is too alkaline.

WATER: Keep soil moist. Over irrigation or waterlogging will lead to root rot. Not drought tolerant.