Red Trailing Queen Coleus: Regal Burgundy Foliage for Containers and Borders

Red Trailing Queen Coleus

Solenostemon scutellarioides ‘Red Trailing Queen’ (sol-en-oh-STEM-on skoot-el-lar-ee-OY-deez) is a stunning trailing coleus cultivar that drapes itself in rich burgundy from stem to leaf tip. Reaching 15 inches tall, its simple oval leaves create a versatile, elegant presence—much like a classic black dress in the garden wardrobe. This cultivar’s deep burgundy foliage harmonizes beautifully with soft pinks, pale yellows, bright fuchsias, and bold oranges, though it may clash with blue and true purple tones.

Key Features

• Growth Habit: Trailing, with leaves about 1 inch long; plants typically grow 12–18 inches tall.
• Ideal Uses: Perfect for containers, hanging baskets, or softening the front edge of borders.
• Seasonal Interest: Showy foliage from spring through fall; small blue or white flowers appear in summer but are often pinched off to maintain foliage focus.

Growing Conditions

Coleus thrives in warm, well-drained soil and dislikes overly dry conditions. Provide full sun to medium shade—colors are most vivid in full sun, while half-day sun yields softer, still-appealing hues. Excessive sun may cause wilting; too much shade leads to leggy growth. Pinch off flower spikes to preserve compact shape and keep attention on the spectacular foliage.

Propagation

Sow seeds on the soil surface at 72–75°F in early spring. Alternatively, root softwood cuttings from late spring through autumn.

Potential Issues

Under glass, mealybugs, scale insects, and whiteflies may appear. No serious insect or disease problems are typical in outdoor settings.

Quick Reference

Height	1–3 ft.
Spread	1–3 ft.
Growth Pace	Moderate
Light	Full Sun to Part Shade
Moisture	Medium
Maintenance	Moderate
Foliage Color	Burgundy, Evergreen
Uses	Beds & Borders, Containers, Indoor Plant, Specimen, Annual