Coleus (Solenostemon scutellarioides ‘Little Twister’) sol-en-oh-STEM-on skoot-el-lar-ee-OY-deez Synonyms:  Coleus blumei var. verschaffeltii Genus:  Solenostemon A mid-size coleus, perfect for filling gaps, 'Little Twister' has crimped, fingery leaves that emerge inky purple, then gradually change to predominantly yellow with lime edges and purple veins. Its 20-inch-long, deep purple stems and compact growth make ‘Little Twister’ a fabulous component of mixed containers. Noteworthy Characteristics:  May be overwintered indoors where not hardy. Coleus have been popular since Victorian times or earlier. Compact growth. Deep purple stems. Crimped leaves with eyecatching colors. Care:  Coleus likes warm soils with decent drainage, and these plants are not happy in overly dry conditions. Grow in full sun to medium shade; their colors are most vivid in full sun. Half-day sun produces softer colors that are still very appealing. Plants grown in too much sun may wilt, and plants grown in too much shade may become leggy Propagation:  Sow seed on the soil's surface at 72° to 75°F in early spring. Root softwood cuttings from late spring to autumn. Problems:  Mealybugs, scale insects, and whiteflies may be a problem under glass. No serious insect or disease problems.

Overview

Height 1 ft. to 3 ft. Spread 1 ft. to 3 ft. Growth Habit Clumps Growth Pace Moderate Grower Light Full Sun to Part Shade Moisture Medium Moisture Maintenance Moderate Characteristics Showy Foliage Bloom Time Summer Flower Color Blue, White Foliage Color Colorful/Burgundy Foliage, Evergreen Uses Beds and Borders, Container, Indoor Plant, Specimen Plant/Focal Point, Suitable as Annual Style Formal Garden Seasonal Interest Spring Interest Type Perennials