How to Grow Coleus
Coleus scutellarioides
Coleus is grown for its spectacular foliage rather than its flowers. Surface-sow seeds indoors in spring — they need light to germinate. Plant out after all frost risk has passed, spacing 25 cm apart in partial shade for the richest leaf colour. Pinch out flower spikes as soon as they appear to keep the plant bushy and the foliage vibrant. Coleus makes an excellent container plant and can be overwintered indoors on a bright windowsill. Take cuttings in late summer as insurance against frost.
When to Start
Start seeds indoors 6 weeks before your last frost date. Transplant outdoors once night temperatures stay above 15°C and soil has warmed to at least 18°C.
Don't know your frost date? Find it here →
Growth Stages
Approximate days from start
Care Essentials
- Feed fortnightly with a balanced liquid fertiliser from late spring through summer. Avoid high-nitrogen feeds which can dull leaf colour.
- Pinch out flower spikes as soon as they appear to keep plants bushy and foliage vibrant — once coleus flowers it redirects energy away from leaf production. Take stem cuttings in late summer to overwinter indoors as insurance against frost.
Growing Conditions
- Min. soil temperature
- 18°C+
- Germination temperature
- 20–25°C
- Direct sow
- —
Want your full season plan with reminders? Try Leaftide free
Spacing & Planting
| Plant spacing | 25 cm |
| Row spacing | 30 cm |
| Sow depth | 0 cm |
| Mature height | 40 cm |
| Mature spread | 30 cm |
Growing Conditions
| Min. soil temperature | 18°C |
| Germination temperature | 20–25°C |
| Base growth temperature | 15°C |
| Min. daylength to start | 10h |
| Photoperiod sensitivity | short day |
Frequently Asked Questions
- How far apart should I plant Coleus?
- Plant Coleus 25cm apart with 30cm between rows.
- Is Coleus frost hardy?
- Coleus is classified as Tender.
