Coleus 'Dark Star': Indigo-Purple Foliage for Dramatic Contrast

Coleus 'Dark Star' (Solenostemon scutellarioides 'Dark Star'), syn. Coleus blumei var. verschaffeltii, features simple, indigo-purple leaves that draw the eye into their inky depths. This mid-size, bushy cultivar forms a tight mound of foliage, reaching 1–3 feet tall and wide. It contrasts beautifully with white flowers or silver foliage, or enhances the blueness of nearby blooms.

Growing Conditions

Grow in full sun to medium shade; colors are most vivid in full sun. Avoid overly dry conditions. Propagate by surface-sowing seed at 72–75°F in early spring, or root softwood cuttings from late spring to autumn. Watch for mealybugs, scale, whiteflies under glass.

Key Features at a Glance

• Height: 1–3 ft.
• Spread: 1–3 ft.
• Growth Habit: Clumping, Moderate
• Light: Full Sun to Part Shade
• Moisture: Medium
• Maintenance: Moderate
• Characteristics: Showy Foliage
• Bloom Time: Summer
• Flower Color: Blue, White
• Foliage Color: Colorful/Burgundy, Evergreen
• Uses: Beds, Borders, Containers, Specimen, Annual, Formal Garden
• Type: Perennials (grown as annual)