Coleus
Plectranthus scutellarioides (KO-lee-us skew-te-lair-ee-OY-deez)
Coleus is an upright annual or herbaceous perennial in the Lamiaceae (mint) family. Its native range is tropical and subtropical Asia to northern Australia. The species name resembles the genus Scutellaria, which comes from the Latin word scutella, meaning a small dish or bowl, referring to the shape of the calyx that persists after the flowers fade. Coleus forms a mound up to 3 feet tall and 3 feet wide. This plant grows best in moist, rich, loose soil in part shade, even tolerating full shade. Plants may wilt in full sun. Full shade may lead to leggy growth. Pinching the stem tips can make the plant bushier, if desired. Cuttings are easily rooted in water or clean potting soil. Many Solenostemon and Plectranthus species have been moved to the genus Coleus . Technically, Coleus pumilus and Solenostemon x scutellarioides now fall under Coleus scutellarioides . Coleus has attractive foliage, succulent stems, and comes in many colors, providing year-round interest. It may be used as a tender annual outdoors in a bed, a border, a hanging basket or container. If grown as a houseplant, it requires bright light. Quick ID Various multicolored leaves with crenate to incise margins Opposite leaves on square-angled stems and twigs Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: Aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites, especially on indoor plants. VIDEO Created by Elisabeth Meyer for " Annuals, Perennials, Vines, and Groundcovers " a plant identification course offered in partnership with Longwood Gardens.
Source: NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox ↗ Scraped verbatim from NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox (https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/plectranthus-scutellarioides/); 60 attributes.