Most coleus will grow best in part shade or dappled light. However, several new cultivars are available that will thrive in full, hot sun. They are listed in the cultivar listings below. Varieties that are not sun-tolerant will bleach and discolor in full sun.

Coleus must have good soil drainage. Poorly drained soils and excessive watering will damage coleus. Plants suffering from “wet feet” will be stunted, leaves will turn a muddy brown, and leaf margins will be scorched.

Plants should not be allowed to dry out, however. Water in thoroughly at planting. During the first seven to 10 days, keep root balls moist but not overly wet. Thereafter, water only when top inch of soil is dry (check with your finger every three to five days). Use of soaker hoses is highly recommended.

Coleus grown in containers are more susceptible to drought and should be planted in a very well-drained soil mix that is watered more frequently.

Pinch growing shoots of young plants frequently to encourage and maintain dense foliage. For a mid-summer growth boost, fertilize in June, July and August with a liquid fertilizer at half the usual dilution.

Flower spikes will appear in late summer. Many people dislike their appearance, and if allowed to go to seed the plant will decline. Shear back flowers to extend performance. Vegetative coleus are sterile forms that must be grown from cuttings. They generally flower little in the summer and require less maintenance than seed-grown coleus.

Since coleus are annuals and will be killed by the first fall frost, you may want to take cuttings of especially prized cultivars. They root easily from stem cuttings at any season. Common coleuses can also be grown from seeds.