Kong coleus (also known as Plectranthus scutellarioides) is a vigorous and low-maintenance perennial plant with colorful foliage, making it a popular choice for home gardens. Unfortunately, it cannot tolerate direct sunlight very well, particularly during the summer.
It prefers bright, indirect light and some shade over the course of the day. This can be achieved by growing the plant in a spot that gets morning sunlight and afternoon shade, or by providing some light shade from a white or sheer curtain.
If the plant does get too much direct afternoon sun, the foliage will start to burn and fade, leading to poor growth and a lack of flowers. To keep the Kong coleus looking its best, it’s best to keep it in partial shade and away from any harsh, direct sunlight.
Are Kong coleus perennials or annuals?
Kong coleus (Syn Coleus x hybridus), also known as painted nettle or flame nettle, is an ornamental flowering plant that belongs to the Lamiaceae (mint) family. It is a tender perennial, so it is classified as an annual on its own, but if kept indoors or in a warm environment where temperatures stay above 55°F (13°C) during the winter months, it can survive as a perennial.
Kong coleus is native to tropical areas in Southeast Asia, India, and tropical Africa, so it will not tolerate temperatures below 55°F (13°C). The plant is grown for its showy foliage, which can be solid colors of pink, burgundy, purple, and red.
The bright colors of coleus let it stand out in a garden or planting bed. Kong coleus grows easily from seed or cuttings and reaches heights of 10-24 inches (25-61 cm). The plant needs protection from full sun, although it can handle light shade.
It prefers evenly moist soil and should be protected from strong winds.
Can Kong coleus grow indoors?
Yes, Kong coleus (Coleus scutellarinus ‘Kong’) can be grown indoors. This perennial is classified as a tender perennial, meaning it does well in hot weather and can tolerate some cold weather. It is a showy plant with large leaves and dark purple foliage in shades of red, orange, yellow, and purple.
Kong coleus can grow large when grown in the right conditions, so make sure it has plenty of room to grow inside your house. Grow it in bright, indirect sunlight but out of direct sunlight to prevent the leaves from scorching.
Be sure to water the plant consistently and use a potting soil that has good drainage. Fertilize the plant in the spring and summer with a water-soluble fertilizer. With proper care, your Kong coleus can be a colorful addition to your home.
How do you grow coleus Kong?
Growing coleus Kong requires working with select potting soil, and a little bit of patience. Start by choosing a container with good drainage. Fill it with the soil of your choice, dampening it to just past the dry-soil stage.
Place your coleus Kong seeds onto the soil, gently covering them with a thin layer of soil. Place your container in a spot that will receive six to eight hours of sun each day and keep the soil slightly moist.
When the plants reach four to six inches in height, start pinching the stem tips, which encourages the plants to branch and become bushy. Once the nights become cooler, you may wish to bring the plants indoors.
Place in a location that receives bright light but no direct sun, and keep the soil slightly moist. If necessary, repot them in fresh soil once the plants are large enough to need it. With consistent watering, appropriate levels of sunlight, and regular pinching, coleus Kong will thrive and provide gorgeous colors throughout its growing season.
How long do coleus live indoors?
Indoor coleus care is easy, and with the proper care, it can last for 3-4 years with new leaves and flowers continually growing. The plant may start to look leggy over time, but the leaves can be trimmed off for a more compact look.
It is important to keep the coleus away from cold drafts and direct sunlight, as it prefers indirect light. Watering needs to be done at least once a week, and more in the summer months. If the soil starts to look dry, add in more water and make sure to not let it sit in water as this will lead to root rot.
If you keep up with regular water, light and fertilizer treatments, your coleus can last a long time indoors!.
Which coleus is good for full sun?
When looking for Coleus that can do well in full sun, there are a few key things to consider. The first is to look for plants that are labeled “sun-tolerant”. This will help to ensure that the Coleus is able to handle harsher conditions.
Including ‘Moses in the Cradle,’ ‘Java Red,’ ‘Kong Series,’ ‘Neony Series,’ ‘Royal Prince,’ and ‘Wasabi. ‘ These varieties have thicker leaves, more vivid colors, and greater tolerance for direct sunlight that are not found in other Coleus varieties.
When choosing these sun-tolerant Coleus varieties, it’s important to keep in mind that they will still require some light shade during the hottest parts of the day. Allowing the plants to get some rest during the hottest periods of the day will help them to stay healthy and full of color all summer long.
Additionally, the soil should be kept moist but not soggy, and regular fertilizing will help to provide nutrients to the plants and keep them looking their best.
How many hours of sun do coleus need?
Coleus plants need at least four to six hours of direct sunlight per day in order to thrive. However, they can also tolerate some light shade, so it is important to find a location that will provide adequate sunlight without being too harsh or intense.
Consider the orientation of the window or outdoor space, as well as its exposure to trees or structures that could block some of the incoming light. If you find a location that gets more than six hours of sun per day, it may be helpful to put up a shade cloth or build an awning to block some of the direct sunlight and help keep the temperature in the area more even.
What is Kong coleus?
Kong coleus is a species of perennial flowering plant which is native to tropical regions of Asia and Africa. It is also known as “African Basil” or “Giant Oyster plant”. Kong Coleus is a low-maintenance plant that flowers in the autumn.
It has brightly colored, waxy leaves with a range of colors including deep purples, reds, oranges, yellows and greens. The blooms are attractively trumpet-shaped and trumpet-colored. Kong coleus will thrive in full sun and is heat-tolerant.
It can be grown indoors or outdoors in most climates. It is an easy plant to propagate and make into new plants. It also serves as an attractive container plant and makes a great addition to container gardens.
Do coleus grow well in shade?
Yes, coleus plants tend to do quite well in the shade. This vivacious and vibrant plant is often used as a bedding plant, as it does well in both full sun and partial shade as long as it is kept moist.
Most coleus varieties will thrive in temperatures between 18-25° C, and can tolerate a light frost in winter. So, if you’re looking for a brightly coloured foliage plant, coleus may be the perfect choice as they provide plenty of colour to shady areas.
In terms of soil requirements, coleus prefers a light, well-draining soil with plenty of added organic matter. The addition of compost or mulch can help retain moisture in shady areas during dry weather.
And when it comes to watering, it is important to remember that coleus likes a consistently moist soil and should be watered at least once a week, depending on how hot it is outside.
How do I make my coleus more colorful?
To make your coleus more colorful, you’ll want to ensure it has plenty of sunlight and enough water for its needs. When it comes to fertilizing, you’ll want to use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to make sure your coleus is getting the nutrients it needs to be healthy and to bring out its best colors.
Also, don’t forget to pinch the growing tips to help promote more of those colorful leaves. Additionally, if your plant is getting plenty of light and nutrients but still isn’t as colorful as you’d like, you could try switching to a different variety of coleus, as some varieties are known for their bright, vivid colors.
Where does coleus grow best?
Coleus is a tropical plant and prefers a warm, humid climate with temperatures typically ranging between 65-85°F (18-30°C). It grows best in well-drained, slightly acidic soil, with a pH of 6.0-7.0 and needs full sun to partial shade for optimal growth.
When grown outdoors, coleus should be planted in an area where it receives morning sun and afternoon shade. To retain its vivid color, it needs about 4 hours of direct light each day. Coleus also does well when grown indoors, as long as it receives an adequate amount of sunlight from a south, east, or west-facing window.
When grown indoors, it should be fertilized once a month using a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer. Coleus can also be propagated through stem-cuttings, which consists of cutting a stem just below a node and placing it in transplanting soil.
Where is the place to plant a coleus?
The best place to plant a coleus is in a spot with lots of indirect light. Coleus plants can tolerate full shade and partial sun, but they do best when they receive at least several hours of filtered sunlight per day.
If you are growing your coleus indoors or on a windowsill, make sure the planter has enough drainage holes to allow excess water to escape. Outdoors, plant your coleus in soil that is moist but well-draining.
Avoid planting in areas that are too wet or too dry. When planting outdoors, you may need to provide extra protection from strong winds and direct sunlight, as coleus plants are sensitive to cold temperatures.
Additionally, make sure to provide a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture. Plant the coleus at least 12-18 inches apart, as it can spread quickly.
How much sun will coleus tolerate?
Coleus is a tropical plant and does best in full to partial shade. However, it can also tolerate several hours of direct sun as long as it is not too intense. Direct sun may cause some of the colors of the foliage to fade, and too much sun can result in sunburn on the leaves.
For best results, place Coleus in a spot that receives several hours of midday sun and sheltered from intense afternoon sunlight. In general, Coleus performs best when the temperature and sunlight exposure remain constant, making the garden or patio a great spot for these plants.
How often do you water coleus?
Coleus plants enjoy consistently moist soil, but should not be left to sit in waterlogged soil. Generally, it’s recommended to water your coleus lightly, with just enough water to keep the top layer of soil consistently moist, once per week.
To determine how much water the plant requires, simply stick your finger in the soil to see how dry it is. If the soil is dry an inch below the surface, it is time to water. During periods of extreme heat and drought, your coleus may require more frequent watering as often as every couple of days.
Can impatiens grow in full shade?
Yes, impatiens can grow in full shade. They are one of the most popular and versatile annuals for shady areas. Impatiens prefer moderate to light shade, but can survive in areas that get no direct sunlight.
Although plants in full shade may not flower as much or as brightly as those grown in higher light levels, many gardeners choose impatiens for their attractive foliage and general adaptability. It is important to provide soil that is well drained, and to keep plants properly watered as impatiens do not tolerate drought.
You may also find it necessary to prune the plants back to encourage branching and prevent legginess.
What are the different types of coleus?
Including both annual and perennial varieties. Annual coleus plants bloom and die in one season, while perennial coleus plants reappear each year. Most coleus is easy to care for and can be grown in garden beds, planters, or hanging baskets.
Common types of annual coleus include the Chocolate Mint Coleus and Neon Prayer Coleus, both of which feature striking foliage covered in green, burgundy, and pink tones. The Bengal Tiger variety of Coleus is also an annual and boasts hues of yellow and orange in its leaves.
Perennial Coleus varieties are more limited, however they offer a few different options. The Red Stemmed Coleus is a hardy plant that produces leaves of purple, burgundy, and bronze. The Lady in Red Coleus provides deep red leaves that contrast nicely with its yellow and green highlights.
The Regal Shields Coleus is a larger variety featuring green, white, and pink foliage.
No matter the type of Coleus you choose, it’s sure to brighten up any yard or living space.
Is Kong coleus sun or shade?
Kong coleus, also known as coleus blumei or ‘Kong’ from its trademarked name, is a popular shade-tolerant ornamental plant. It is a type of perennial with striking foliage and bright, variegated colors, making it a great choice for gardens or planters.
While Kong coleus prefers full morning sun, it also tolerates shade during the afternoon and evening. During periods of extreme heat and high temperatures, a little extra shade is beneficial for its survival as it can become scorched by intense sunlight.
However, it is important to give Kong coleus some sun, as too much shade can cause it to lack vigor and become overly leggy with sparse foliage. Therefore, Kong coleus is typically recommended to be grown in partial shade to part sun locations.
What coleus can handle full sun?
Coleus plants can usually handle full sun and bright light, though they prefer and thrive in partial shade. For best results, give coleus partial or dappled shade and direct sun for only a few hours a day.
If grown in full sun, the colors of the leaves will become more vibrant and the leaves will become slightly thicker and less fragile. However, direct sun can increase your risk of burning the delicate foliage.
To avoid heat stress, it is best to introduce any new coleus plants to direct sun slowly and carefully. Additionally, in full sun, the plants will need consistent water, as the soil can dry out quickly and cause leaf scorch.
An hour or two of direct sun in the morning or late afternoon should be enough to satisfy strong varieties of coleus.
Do coleus come back every year?
Coleus plants are typically treated as annuals, meaning they’re not expected to come back year after year. Depending on where you live and how much care you give them, some may survive during the winter, but they don’t usually grow to their full potential again the following year.
Coleus plants prefer temperatures of at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit, and they are not frost tolerant. If you live in an area with mild winters, you can treat them as perennials and expect them to come back year after year.
If you want to take the risk, you can bring them indoors during the winter and keep them in a warm place. When the temperatures outside warm back up, you can replant them outdoors. On the other hand, if you don’t want to take the risk of trying to overwinter them, you can simply enjoy them as an annual and buy new plants each year.
