Coleus varieties:
Top row (l-r): 'Saturn', 'Lord Voldemort', 'Pistachio Nightmare', Middle row(l-r): 'Religious Radish', 'Sedona', 'Beckwith Gem', Bottom row: (unknown yellow variety), 'Alabama Sunset' and 'Fishnet Stockings.'
Coleus (Solenostemon scutellarioides) are summer annuals here in the Pacific Northwest although they are perennial in their native range in SE Asia and when planted in the mildest regions around the globe. It is safe to plant them in the PNW near the end of May each year when evening temperatures are in the mid-40's F. They more than compensate for their late start by providing glorious foliage all summer and a wealth of possibilities for combinations when paired with other plants. They are available in a wide range of colors and make perfect accents for mixing with other annuals in bedding schemes or in container plantings.
Previously grown in generations past as a Victorian conservatory (greenhouse) plant, earlier forms have been vastly improved upon in recent years by the efforts of superior breeders. Today's varieties are generally tolerant of both full sun or shade, making them extremely versatile without much worry about their light requirements (with the exception of some of the pale yellows, ie. 'The Line' which should be kept out of afternoon sun). They are generally very easy to grow if you purchase healthy plants at your local garden center. They require good drainage and regular feeding, as per other summer annuals. It is helpful to pinch off any flowers that may form on the terminal shoots to produce a fuller, more robust plant. Most varieties will grow to between 12 and 15" tall and wide although both larger and smaller varieties are available. Try Wells Medina Nursery in the Seattle area for an outstanding selection of these beauties.
Cheers, Tim
