Coleus (Solenostemon scutellarioides ‘Red Trailing Queen’) sol-en-oh-STEM-on skoot-el-lar-ee-OY-deez Synonyms:  Coleus blumei var. verschaffeltii Genus:  Solenostemon As basic as a black dress, 15-inch-tall ‘Red Trailing Queen’ bedecks herself from leaf to stem in regal burgundy. Her simple oval leaf shape and straightforward color complement most shades, except blue and true purple. The subtle strength of the coleus’s burgundy foliage strikes a balance with soft pinks or pale yellows as well as bright fuchsias or bold oranges. Noteworthy Characteristics:  Trailing coleus tends to have leaves that are only an inch long, and the plants typically grow 12 to 18 inches tall. They are custom-made for using in containers or for softening the front edge of a border Care:  Coleus likes warm soils with decent drainage, and the 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. Pinch off flowers to retain shape and to keep the attention on the foliage. 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