Ruby Ruffles Coleus: Frilly Foliage with Ruby Centers and Chartreuse Edges

Ruby Ruffles Coleus

Solenostemon scutellarioides ‘Ruby Ruffles’ (sol-en-oh-STEM-on skoot-el-lar-ee-OY-deez) stands out with its frilly, finger-like foliage—ruby-red centers framed by vibrant chartreuse margins. A relatively compact trailer, this tender tropical (hardy only in Zone 11) is grown as an annual in most regions. Like all coleus, it’s prized for its colorful leaves rather than its modest blue-to-white nettle-like flowers that appear in summer racemes; these blooms are often pinched off to maintain the plant’s ornamental appeal.

Key Features

• Foliage: Deeply lobed, ruffled leaves with striking ruby and chartreuse contrast.
• Habit: Compact trailing form, ideal for containers and mixed plantings.
• History: Coleus has been a garden favorite since Victorian times.

Growing Conditions

Provide warm, well-drained soil and consistent moisture—coleus dislikes drought. Grow in full sun to medium shade; full sun intensifies colors, while half-day sun softens them. Too much sun may cause wilting; too much shade leads to legginess. Pinch flower spikes to retain shape and foliar focus.

Propagation

Sow seeds on the soil surface at 72–75°F in early spring. Root softwood cuttings from late spring to autumn.

Potential Issues

Mealybugs, scale, and whiteflies can be problematic under glass. No serious outdoor pests or diseases.

Overwintering

Where not hardy, plants can be overwintered indoors in a bright location.

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, Chartreuse, Evergreen
Uses	Beds & Borders, Containers, Indoor Plant, Specimen, Annual