Solenostemon scutellarioides

Coleus, Flame Nettle, Painted Nettle

Colour

green, pink, red, purple, yellow, and multicolored.

Varieties

Message of the Flower

Spiritual Awakening of the Vital

The Mother’s Comment

It soars towards the heights in the hope of reaching them.

Colour

Pale lavender to white

Message of the Flower

Strength in the Vital

The Mother’s Comment

Likes to show its beauty and its power.

Colour

Multicoloured

Family

Lamiaceae

Cultivars

Kong', 'Wizard', 'Fairway', and 'Rainbow' series

Person who named the flower

(L.) Codd

Flower Size

Small, often inconspicuous compared to the foliage.

Flower Texture

Smooth

Number of Petals

Five

Floral Symmetry

Bilaterally symmetrical.

Fragrance of Flower

Flowers are not noted for fragrance; foliage sometimes has a slight scent.

Leaf Texture

Smooth to slightly hairy.

Leaf Arrangement

Opposite

Leaf Color

Highly variable, including shades of green, red, purple, yellow, and patterned.

Structural Variation (Shrub or Tree)

Herbaceous perennial, often grown as an annual.

Life Cycle

Perennial in its native habitat but often grown as an annual in temperate climates.

Blooming Period

Late spring to fall.

Climate

Tropical to subtropical; grown as annuals in temperate zones.

Water Requirements

Moderate; prefers consistently moist but well-drained soil.

Soil Type

Prefers rich, well-drained potting mixes.

Temperature Ranges

Warm; does not tolerate frost.

Sun or Shade

Prefers partial shade but some cultivars can tolerate full sun.

Susceptibility to Insects and Diseases

Susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and fungal diseases.

Pollinators

Attracts bees and other pollinators with its flowers.

Habitat

Native to Southeast Asia and Malaysia.

Role in the Ecosystem

Primarily used for ornamental purposes; can provide nectar for pollinators.

Ornamental

Widely cultivated for its decorative leaves and vibrant colors.

Uses in Other Aspects of Life

Primarily for ornamental gardening and interior decoration.

Endangered Status

Not considered endangered; widely cultivated.