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Coleus
Coleus amboinicus (syn. Plectranthus amboinicus)
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Kingdom: Plantae
Clade: Tracheophytes
Clade: Angiosperms
Clade: Eudicots
Clade: Asterids
Order: Lamiales
Family: Lamiaceae
Subfamily: Nepetoideae
Tribe: Ocimeae
Genus: Coleus
Lour. (1790)[1]
Synonyms[1]
  • Anisochilus Wall. ex Benth. (1830)
  • Ascocarydion G.Taylor (1931)
  • Briquetastrum Robyns & Lebrun (1929)
  • Burnatastrum Briq. (1897)
  • Calchas P.V.Heath (1997)
  • Capitanya Schweinf. ex Gürke (1895)
  • Englerastrum Briq. (1838)
  • Holostylon Robyns & Lebrun (1929)
  • Isodictyophorus Briq. (1917)
  • Leocus A.Chev. (1909)
  • Majana Rumph. ex Kuntze (1803)
  • Mitsa Chapel. ex Benth. (1832), pro syn.
  • Neohyptis J.K.Morton (1962)
  • Neomuellera Briq. (1894)
  • Pycnostachys Hook. (1826)
  • Rabdosiella Codd (1984)
  • Saccostoma Wall. ex Voigt (1845), nom. nud.
  • Solenostemon Thonn. (1827)
  • Stiptanthus Briq. (1897)
  • Symphostemon Hiern (1900)
Cultivar of Coleus scutellarioides

Coleus (/ˈkoʊliəs/, KOH-lee-əs) is a genus of annual or perennial herbs or shrubs, sometimes succulent, sometimes with a fleshy or tuberous rootstock, found in the Afro-Eurasia tropics and subtropics.

The relationship among the genera Coleus, Solenostemon and Plectranthus has been confused. Coleus and Solenostemon were sunk into Plectranthus, but recent phylogenetic analysis found Plectranthus to be paraphyletic with respect to other related genera in the subtribe Plectranthinae. The most recent taxonomic treatment of the genus resurrected Coleus, and 212 names were changed from combinations in Plectranthus, Pycnostachys and Anisochilus. Equilabium was segregated from Plectranthus, after phylogenetic studies supported its recognition as a phylogenetically distinct genus.[2] Common names for Coleus include spurflower, flybush, hedgehog flower and hullwort.[citation needed]

Coleus are cultivated as ornamental plants, particularly Coleus scutellarioides (syns. Coleus blumei, Plectranthus scutellarioides), which is popular as a garden plant for its brightly colored foliage.

Other species that produce root tubers are cultivated for food, including Coleus esculentus, Coleus rotundifolius and Coleus maculosus subsp. edulis.

Taxonomy

[edit]

The genus Coleus was first described by João de Loureiro in 1790. Using morphological characters as a guide, it was distinguished from Plectranthus (first described by Charles L'Héritier in 1788) by having its four stamens fused together rather than free to the base. In 1962, J.K. Morton noted that fused stamens were more widespread than previously thought, and accordingly merged Coleus into Plectranthus, while maintaining Solenostemon and some other genera as distinct.[3] Most sources followed Morton in submerging Coleus; some kept Solenostemon distinct, although others submerged it into Plectranthus along with Coleus.[2]

A preliminary study of the tribe Ocimeae in 2004 showed that the subtribe Plectranthinae was monophyletic, with two main clades: one containing the type species of Coleus and including Solenostemon, the other containing the type species of Plectranthus along with some other genera, so that Plectranthus when broadly defined was not monophyletic. A more detailed study in 2018 reached similar conclusions, and suggested that Coleus (including Solenostemon) should be recognized again, Plectranthus more narrowly defined, and a new genus, Equilabium erected for a clade of former Plectranthus species mainly from tropical Africa. The many new binomial combinations needed to implement this approach were provided in 2019.[2]

Phylogeny

[edit]

Paton et al. in 2019 published a summary cladogram for the subtribe Plectranthinae,[2] based on a study in 2018.[4] In the version below, the three genera accepted by Paton et al. that formed part of Plectranthus s.l. are highlighted.

Tribe Ocimeae

Subtribe Ociminae

Subtribe Plectranthinae

Alvesia (3 spp.)

Aeollanthus (42 spp.)

Tetradenia + Thorncroftia (29 spp.)

Plectranthus (72 spp.)

Capitanopsis (6 spp.)

Equilabium (42 spp.)

Coleus (294 spp.)

Species

[edit]
Main article: List of Coleus species

Paton et al. (2019) listed 294 species of Coleus, many transferred from Plectranthus.[2] As of April 2024, Plants of the World Online lists 302.[1] Species include:[2][1]

[edit]

References

[edit]

Citations

[edit]
  1. ^ a b c d "Coleus Lour". Plants of the World Online. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Retrieved 16 April 2024.
  2. ^ a b c d e f Paton, Alan J.; Mwanyambo, Montfort; Govaerts, Rafaël H.A.; Smitha, Kokkaraniyil; Suddee, Somran; Phillipson, Peter B.; Wilson, Trevor C.; Forster, Paul I. & Culham, Alastair (2019). "Nomenclatural changes in Coleus and Plectranthus (Lamiaceae): a tale of more than two genera". PhytoKeys (129): 1–158. doi:10.3897/phytokeys.129.34988. PMC 6717120. PMID 31523157.
  3. ^ Morton, J.K. (2006). "Plectranthus". In Hedberg, I.; Kelbessa, E.; Edwards, S.; Demissew, S. & Persson, E. (eds.). Flora of Ethiopia and Eritrea. Vol. 5. Addis Ababa: The National Herbarium, Addis Ababa University. pp. 586–598. ISBN 978-91-971285-6-8., cited in Paton et al. 2019
  4. ^ Paton, A.; Mwanyambo, M. & Culham, A. (2018). "Phylogenetic study of Plectranthus, Coleus and allies (Lamiaceae): Taxonomy, distribution and medicinal use" (PDF). Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society. 188 (4): 355–376. doi:10.1093/botlinnean/boy064.

General and cited sources

[edit]
  • "Coleus Care". Gardening Know How. 15 July 2019. Archived from the original on 15 July 2019. Retrieved 15 July 2019.
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Coleus

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Coleus is a of flowering plants in the family (mint family), comprising approximately 320 accepted of annual or perennial herbs, subshrubs, or shrubs, many of which are succulent or possess tuberous rootstocks, primarily native to the tropical and subtropical regions of the , including , , and northern . These plants typically feature square stems, opposite or whorled leaves that are often simple and ovate to lanceolate, and terminal or axillary inflorescences of small, bilabiate flowers arranged in racemes, spikes, or cymes, with a funnel-shaped to tubular calyx that is a diagnostic feature of the genus. Taxonomically, Coleus was originally described by João de Loureiro in 1790, but underwent significant revisions in the ; phylogenetic analyses led to the resurrection of the genus in 2019, transferring over 200 from the related Plectranthus and others like Pycnostachys and Anisochilus, resulting in a current circumscription that emphasizes morphological and molecular distinctions such as numbers and pollen characteristics. Distributed across diverse habitats from rainforests and savannas to rocky outcrops and disturbed areas, species exhibit adaptations like succulence in arid environments or climbing habits in forested settings, with many showing high levels of in regions like , where 95 taxa have been documented. Notable for both ornamental and medicinal value, (commonly known as coleus) is widely cultivated for its vibrant, variegated foliage in shades of green, red, pink, yellow, and purple, making it a staple in gardens and as a , while species like Coleus forskohlii are valued in traditional Ayurvedic for producing , a compound used in treatments for , , and cardiovascular conditions.

Taxonomy and Systematics

Etymology and Nomenclature

The genus name Coleus originates from the Ancient Greek word koleos (κολέος), meaning "sheath" or "scabbard," a reference to the fused filaments of the stamens that form a tubular sheath around the style in the flowers. This etymological choice highlights a key morphological feature distinguishing the genus within the mint family (Lamiaceae). The genus was formally established in 1790 by Portuguese botanist João de Loureiro in his work Flora Cochinchinensis, with Coleus amboinicus Lour. serving as the type species based on specimens collected from Ambon Island in the Moluccas. Plants in the Coleus genus are known by various common names that evoke their ornamental appeal or aromatic qualities, such as "painted nettle" or "flame nettle," the latter alluding to the vivid, flame-like coloration of the foliage in cultivated varieties. Regional variations include "country borage" or "Indian borage" for C. amboinicus in tropical Africa and Asia, where it is valued for its oregano-like scent, and "autograph tree" in some Pacific Island cultures due to traditional practices of inscribing messages on its leaves. These names reflect both the plant's visual diversity and its cultural uses across different locales. The popular ornamental coleus, celebrated for its multicolored leaves, was originally described as Coleus blumei Benth. in 1832 by , honoring Dutch Carl Ludwig Blume who collected specimens in . Following extensive taxonomic revisions driven by molecular phylogenetic analyses, it has been reclassified as (L.) Benth., reinstating the genus Coleus for this and related species previously lumped under or .

Phylogenetic Position

Coleus is placed within the family , commonly known as the mint family, specifically in the subfamily and tribe Ocimeae, subtribe Plectranthinae. This positioning reflects its shared characteristics with other mints, such as aromatic foliage and bilabiate corollas, within a predominantly tropical . Molecular phylogenetic studies using chloroplast DNA markers, including rps16, trnL-F, and trnS-G, have revealed complex relationships among Coleus and allied genera. Earlier analyses indicated that the traditional circumscription of Coleus was polyphyletic, with its species interspersed among those of and , prompting the merger of these taxa into a broader in the early . However, more resolved phylogenies confirmed a distinct Coleus sister to the remaining Plectranthinae, supporting its recognition as a monophyletic group closely related to and . In the late , cladistic analyses based on expanded molecular datasets led to the of Coleus, incorporating 62 Australian species previously classified under . This taxonomic revision emphasized morphological and genetic distinctions, such as structure and sequence variations, to delineate boundaries. Phylogenetically, Coleus diverges from other lineages around 30–40 million years ago during the late Eocene to , coinciding with the radiation of amid and . Within the family tree, the branches within Ocimeae, forming a well-supported monophyletic group basal to sensu stricto, with internal diversification estimated at 14–17 million years ago in the .

Classification History and Current Status

The genus Coleus Lour. was first described in , but the name was later conserved in with C. amboinicus (Lour.) Schrad. as the to resolve nomenclatural issues. The initial broad circumscription was provided by Bentham in de Candolle's Prodromus (1832 and 1848), where he recognized approximately 112 species across a wide range of tropical and subtropical taxa, encompassing diverse habits and distributions. In the , taxonomic revisions began to fragment this broad Coleus. In , Ashby segregated the ornamental species with colorful foliage and single-flowered cincinni into the genus Solenostemon Schumach. & Thonn., rendering Coleus more narrowly defined. Subsequent molecular phylogenetic studies in the 2010s, however, demonstrated that both Coleus and were polyphyletic within the subtribe Plectranthinae, leading to their merger into the larger genus L'Hér. by the early 2010s. A comprehensive phylogenetic in 2018 prompted a major reclassification, resurrecting Coleus sensu stricto as a monophyletic to the remaining Plectranthinae. In 2019, Paton et al. formalized this by transferring 212 names from Plectranthus, Pycnostachys Hook., and Anisochilus Wall. ex Benth. to Coleus, recognizing 294 accepted species at that time, alongside 42 in the new Equilabium A.J.Paton and 72 in sensu stricto. This included the transfer of 62 Australian taxa previously classified under Plectranthus, based on morphological and molecular evidence aligning them with the type of Coleus. As of 2025, recognizes approximately 320 accepted species in Coleus, 42 in Equilabium, and 83 in Plectranthus sensu stricto. Representative core accepted species in Coleus sensu stricto include C. amboinicus (Lour.) Schrad. (Cuban oregano), C. barbatus (Andrews) Benth. (synonym Plectranthus barbatus Andrews, source of forskolin), C. caninus (E.Mey. ex Benth.) A.J.Paton (synonym Plectranthus caninus E.Mey. ex Benth.), C. forsteri (Benth.) A.J.Paton, C. graveolens (Benth.) A.J.Paton, and the widely cultivated ornamental C. scutellarioides (L.) Benth., among others distributed primarily in , , and . Ongoing taxonomic debates in Coleus center on challenges posed by extensive hybridization in cultivation, which has produced numerous cultivars blurring species boundaries, and natural escapes that complicate wild population delimitation and phylogenetic resolution.

Description

Growth Habit and Structure

Coleus species primarily exhibit herbaceous to shrubby growth habits as annuals or perennials within the Lamiaceae family, characterized by square stems that provide structural support and are a hallmark of mint family morphology. These stems are often semi-succulent, contributing to the plant's resilience in tropical environments, and arise from a basal rosette or directly from roots. Plants typically reach heights of 0.3 to 1 m, though some species like Coleus esculentus can grow to 0.6–1.2 m with sparingly branched, erect forms. Root systems in Coleus are generally fibrous, facilitating efficient nutrient uptake in well-drained soils, but vary across species; for instance, C. esculentus develops prominent tuberous roots that are fleshy, branched, and attached directly to the stem base, serving as storage organs. These tubers, 5–10 cm long and 1.2–2 cm in diameter, emerge in clusters and support the plant's nature in native habitats. In mature specimens, stems may develop woody bases, enhancing durability in shrub-like forms. As perennials in tropical regions, Coleus complete their life cycle over multiple years, with vegetative growth dominating until flowering in summer, after which seed production may occur. In temperate zones, however, they are typically grown as annuals due to sensitivity to , completing their cycle within one . Growth habits vary notably among species and cultivars, ranging from upright and bushy architectures in most ornamental types to creeping or trailing forms in select varieties, allowing adaptation to diverse garden uses.

Foliage Characteristics

The leaves of Coleus species are characteristically in arrangement along square stems, a trait typical of the family. They are generally ovate to lanceolate or oblong in shape, measuring 5-15 cm in length, with margins that are often serrated, crenate, or lobed, adding to their textured appearance. Foliage coloration in Coleus is highly variable and vibrant, featuring patterns in , red, pink, yellow, and purple, often with prominent veining that accentuates the contrasts. These colors arise primarily from variations in distribution, which imparts greens, and pigments, responsible for the reds, pinks, and purples, creating mosaic or irregular patterns along the veins or margins. Some species exhibit unique adaptations, such as aromatic glandular trichomes on the leaves; for instance, (formerly classified as amboinicus) possesses fuzzy, velvety leaves with an oregano-like scent when crushed, due to essential oils secreted by these structures. Foliage intensity responds to environmental conditions, with colors becoming more vivid and production increasing under bright light exposure, while shade causes fading or greener tones dominated by .

Flowers, Fruits, and Reproduction

The flowers of Coleus species, particularly C. scutellarioides, are small and tubular, measuring 0.8–2 cm in length, with a bilabiate (two-lipped) corolla typical of the family. The calyx is funnel-shaped to tubular, a diagnostic feature of the genus. The corolla is often blue, purple, or white, featuring an upper lip that is erect and four-lobed, and a lower lip that is recurved and three-lobed, with the tube abruptly bent near the base. The genus name Coleus derives from the Greek "koleos," meaning sheath, referring to the stamens that are fused into a sheath-like tube around the style. Flowers are perfect (bisexual) with a superior and are arranged in terminal verticillasters forming or racemes that can reach up to 30 cm long, though they are generally not showy and peak in late summer. In ornamental cultivars, the dense foliage often obscures these flowers, emphasizing the plant's vegetative appeal over its reproductive structures. Pollination in Coleus is primarily entomophilous, facilitated by insects such as bees that access nectar via guides on the lower lip of the corolla; as the insect depresses the lip to reach the nectar, the stamens are exposed, depositing pollen on the visitor for cross-pollination. Some species or self-compatible individuals may undergo self-pollination if insect activity is low, though the flower's morphology favors outcrossing. The fruits of Coleus are schizocarps that split into four brown, single-seeded nutlets (mericarps) upon maturity, each enclosed within the persistent calyx for protection. These tiny nutlets, typically 1–1.5 mm long, are dispersed primarily by due to their lightweight structure, though animal-mediated dispersal can occur if they adhere to or are carried externally. Reproduction in Coleus occurs sexually through seed production from fertilized flowers, yielding viable in wild species, though many ornamental hybrids exhibit low seed viability or produce not true to parent due to genetic instability. Vegetative reproduction via stem cuttings is common as an alternative strategy, allowing clonal propagation that bypasses seed limitations in cultivated forms.

Distribution and Ecology

Native and Introduced Ranges

Coleus, a in the family, is predominantly native to the tropical and subtropical regions of the . Its natural distribution spans from , including and , through and across to . Approximately 320 are currently recognized within the genus (as of 2025), with the majority occurring in and , where more than 100 species are documented across diverse tropical habitats. In , the genus is particularly diverse, with 95 taxa recorded in Central Africa alone and 29 indigenous species in , including representatives like in southern regions. Northern Australia hosts several endemic Coleus species, contributing to the genus's Old World concentration following recent taxonomic revisions that resurrected Coleus from broader groupings. Human activities have facilitated the widespread introduction of Coleus species beyond their native ranges, primarily as ornamental plants. In the , species such as have become naturalized in subtropical areas, including and , where they thrive in disturbed sites and gardens. European cultivation occurs mainly in greenhouses due to climatic limitations, while Pacific islands have seen establishments through ornamental trade. Some introductions have led to invasive tendencies, notably Plectranthus scutellarioides (syn. ) in northeastern , , where it forms dense thickets in shaded, moist environments. The dispersal of Coleus outside its native ranges is largely attributable to 19th-century botanical trade routes, with early introductions documented from to around the 1850s by explorers like Karl Ludwig Blume, sparking widespread cultivation in Victorian gardens.

Habitat Preferences

Coleus species predominantly inhabit humid tropical and subtropical regions, favoring climates classified as Aw (tropical wet and dry ) with distinct wet and dry seasons. These environments typically feature annual rainfall between 1000 and 3000 mm, concentrated in a pronounced wet period, and temperatures ranging from 18°C to 30°C. They occur naturally at altitudes from up to 2000 m, though some populations extend to 2900 m in montane areas. In these settings, Coleus thrives in well-drained, fertile loamy soils enriched with , showing tolerance for both sandy and clayey substrates as long as drainage is adequate to prevent waterlogging. Light preferences lean toward partial shade or dappled , often in shaded understories or edges, where full sun exposure can cause leaf scorching in sensitive . Coleus is frequently associated with disturbed habitats such as margins, open grasslands, riverbanks, and rocky outcrops, as well as in forests and thickets.

Ecological Interactions

Coleus species, belonging to the family, primarily attract pollinators from the orders (such as bees and wasps) and (butterflies), which facilitate transfer through interactions with the plant's tubular corollas adapted to varying lengths. in Coleus occurs mainly via gravity and autochory, with nutlets released from persistent calyces, though some species exhibit secondary removal by ground-dwelling arthropods in natural settings. Herbivory on Coleus foliage is prevalent in both native and introduced ranges, with leaves browsed by insects including aphids (Aphididae) and lepidopteran caterpillars, which create characteristic holes and skeletonization. Larger mammals occasionally graze on tender shoots in disturbed areas, though insect herbivores predominate. Aromatic species like Coleus amboinicus (syn. Coleus aromaticus) produce essential oils rich in thymol, serving as chemical defenses that exhibit insecticidal and repellent properties against potential herbivores. Coleus forms symbiotic associations with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), particularly Glomus , which enhance and other nutrient uptake, promoting growth and resilience in nutrient-poor soils. These associations are widespread across like Coleus forskohlii, aiding establishment in varied habitats from shaded understories to open clearings. In disturbed environments, such as forest edges or degraded sites, Coleus acts as a colonizer, contributing to early through its and dense mat-forming growth. In introduced regions, particularly Pacific islands like in the and , Coleus (notably scutellarioides) behaves invasively, forming monocultures that outcompete native flora for light, water, and nutrients, thereby reducing in understory communities. This competition can indirectly alter local pollinator dynamics by favoring generalist over specialists adapted to endemic .

Cultivation and Uses

History of Cultivation

Indigenous peoples in tropical have cultivated Coleus esculentus, known as the Livingstone potato, for its edible tubers since ancient times, using them as a similar to common in Central African diets. This species, native to southern tropical , was domesticated through selection for larger tubers and remains an underutilized crop in traditional . In and , other Coleus species, including C. scutellarioides, were employed medicinally to treat ailments such as digestive issues and skin conditions, and as food additives in local cuisines. These early uses highlight the plant's pre-colonial significance in native ecosystems, predating European contact by centuries. The introduction of coleus to occurred in the early , when Dutch Carl Ludwig Blume collected Coleus blumei (a synonym of ) from around 1830 and brought it to botanical gardens in the . By the 1850s, the plant had spread across , captivating Victorian gardeners with its vibrant, patterned foliage suitable for indoor parlors and outdoor carpet bedding schemes. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, extensive hybridization efforts produced hundreds of cultivars, making coleus a staple in ornamental and symbolizing the era's fascination with exotic, colorful . Coleus popularity waned after the as gardening trends shifted toward natural landscapes and away from formal bedding designs, leading to a decline in cultivation and breeding. A significant revival began in the , driven by renewed interest in foliage and innovations in hybrid breeding that introduced sun-tolerant varieties and uniform seed strains, including the 'Rainbow' series known for its multicolored leaves. Taxonomic reclassifications in the late , shifting the genus from Coleus to or for some species, briefly complicated cultivar but did not hinder the plant's resurgence. In the , coleus holds a prominent place in the global ornamental trade, valued for its versatility in gardens, containers, and indoor settings, with ongoing introductions of new cultivars annually. Breeding advancements, such as seed-propagated F1 hybrids developed in the , have improved uniformity and disease resistance, facilitating larger-scale production and distribution worldwide.

Propagation and Care

Coleus plants are readily propagated through several methods, primarily stem cuttings, which is the most common and reliable approach for maintaining desirable traits in ornamental varieties. To propagate via stem cuttings, select healthy, non-flowering tips and cut 4- to 6-inch sections just below a node using a clean, sharp tool; remove the lower leaves to expose 2 to 3 inches of stem, then place the cuttings in a jar of water or moist, well-drained potting mix such as or . Roots typically develop in 2 to 4 weeks under warm conditions (around 70°F or 21°C) and bright, indirect light, after which the rooted cuttings can be transplanted into pots or the garden. Seeds offer another propagation option, particularly for producing new genetic variations, though they may not replicate the parent plant's exact foliage patterns. Sow coleus on the surface of a sterile, moist seed-starting mix without covering them, as they require light for ; maintain temperatures of 70° to 75°F (21° to 24°C) using a heat mat if necessary, with occurring in 10 to 15 days. Seedlings reach transplant size in 6 to 8 weeks and should be hardened off before outdoor planting. Division is suitable for mature, clumping specimens, where the root ball is gently separated into sections during repotting or early spring, each with shoots and roots, and replanted immediately in prepared . For optimal growth, plant coleus in fertile, well-drained with a of 6.0 to 7.0, enriched with like to retain moisture without becoming waterlogged; heavy clay soils benefit from amendments such as or to improve drainage. Space plants 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 cm) apart in beds to allow for their bushy habit and prevent overcrowding, which can promote . Watering should maintain consistently moist , providing about 1 inch per week depending on and , but allow the top inch to dry slightly between applications to avoid from soggy conditions. Coleus thrives in partial shade with 4 to 6 hours of indirect daily, tolerating full shade but risking leggy growth; in hotter climates, morning sun followed by afternoon shade mimics their native habitat preferences. To encourage bushiness, pinch off growing tips and flower spikes regularly throughout the season. Apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (such as 10-10-10 NPK) every two weeks during the at half-strength to support vigorous foliage development without excessive legginess. In USDA hardiness zones below 10, where is a risk, overwinter coleus indoors by bringing potted plants inside before the first freeze or taking cuttings to in a sunny window with temperatures above 60°F (15°C); reduce watering and stop fertilizing during this dormant period. Common issues include legginess from insufficient light, which can be corrected by relocating to brighter conditions and pinching back stems, and from overwatering, prevented by ensuring proper drainage.

Ornamental Varieties and Cultivars

Coleus, primarily derived from Coleus scutellarioides, has given rise to over 1,500 named cultivars, showcasing an extensive array of foliage colors, patterns, and forms that have made it a staple in ornamental horticulture. These cultivars emphasize vibrant leaf variations, including deep purples, bright chartreuses, reds, and multicolored mosaics, often with serrated or ruffled edges, building on the wild species' natural variegation for enhanced visual appeal. Notable examples include 'Black Magic', featuring velvety dark purple leaves with chartreuse scalloped edges, reaching 18 to 24 inches in height. 'Lime Ruffles' displays bright chartreuse foliage with ruffled margins for a textured look, while 'Fishnet Stockings' offers striking lime-green leaves veined in , creating a net-like pattern that thrives in shade to part sun. Breeding efforts since the early 2000s have focused on sun-tolerant hybrids to expand coleus use beyond shaded areas, with the University of Florida's program releasing the first commercial cultivars in 2006 through partnerships like Ball Horticultural Company. The 'Solar' series exemplifies this trend, featuring vibrant, non-fading colors in full sun exposure. Similarly, the 'Wizard' series provides compact, upright plants ideal for containers, growing 10 to 12 inches tall in a range of colors from scarlet to golden, with uniform branching. Cultivar selection prioritizes stable coloration that resists bleaching in sunlight, resistance to diseases such as , and height versatility from dwarf forms under 12 inches to taller varieties up to 1.5 meters. Availability varies by method: seed-grown options like the 'Wizard' and 'Rainbow' series enable uniform production for mass planting, whereas vegetative via cuttings is used for complex hybrids to preserve unique traits. Major breeders, including Ball Horticultural and PanAmerican Seed, drive innovation in these lines, ensuring diverse options for landscapes and indoor settings. As of 2025, the University of Florida's breeding program continues to release new sun-tolerant and disease-resistant cultivars annually.

Other Uses

Coleus species have been utilized in , particularly in , where (synonymous with C. forskohlii) is employed to address heart conditions, , and respiratory disorders. Essential oils extracted from leaves of species such as C. aromaticus and C. amboinicus exhibit properties against food-borne bacteria and fungi, attributed to compounds like . Modern research focuses on , a isolated from C. forskohlii roots, which has shown potential in at doses of 10-50 mg per day and in treating by lowering . These applications leverage the plant's aromatic foliage to enhance therapeutic efficacy. In culinary contexts, C. amboinicus, known as Cuban oregano, provides edible leaves with a pungent flavor used to season soups, meats, fish, and salads in various cuisines. The tubers of C. esculentus, referred to as Livingstone potato, serve as a supplementary or in parts of , where they are consumed boiled or raw for their starchy content. Beyond and , certain Coleus offer practical utilities; for instance, C. caninus is planted as a natural repellent against dogs and cats due to its strong, unpleasant when brushed. Leaves of C. atropurpureus yield natural dyes through microwave-assisted extraction, producing colors suitable for textiles. In systems, C. aromaticus contributes to when intercropped with trees like sapota and , aiding on slopes. Safety considerations are essential, as some Coleus species may be toxic if ingested raw, potentially causing gastrointestinal upset. supplements can interact with medications, such as beta-blockers and , and should be avoided by those with low or on anticoagulants.

References

  1. https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:20765-1
  2. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6717120/
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  10. https://phytokeys.pensoft.net/article/34988/
  11. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-017-02157-6
  12. https://www.botanicgardens.org.au/discover-and-learn/watch-listen-read/coleus-genus-resurrected
  13. https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/77194273-1
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  17. https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:445982-1
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  23. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FP136
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