Coleus belongs to the family Lamiaceae, which previously belonged to about 150 species. Later, after the research, the genus was disbanded, and it became synonymous with Sporeflower.
Coleus Description
The homeland of Coleus is tropical regions, grows in Asian and African forests. Locals use some of its wild species for food. In nature, this is an annual or perennial plant, most often it is a shrub up to 50 cm. The most important value is leaves of any color with a variety of patterns. They can have fringes, various dots, various spots, stripes and dull white designs. Very beautiful varieties with several contrasting shades. The flowers are small and inconspicuous.
Coleus has several household names or nicknames: "nettle" and "croton of the poor." I got them for the individual shape and color of the leaves, which is especially appreciated by gardeners.
This is undemanding and refined, wonderful and original plant, pleasing lovers with a variety of colors. It feels great indoors and outdoors. It is well undergoing a change of scenery, unpretentious in content and is growing rapidly. Most often polyhybrid species are planted.
Types and varieties of coleus
Mixed colors in the leaves gave direction to breeders who focused their efforts on obtaining unfamiliar varieties and species. Plants with beautiful ornaments and a diverse combination of shades were bred. All varieties obtained can make up a whole catalog, their main difference in color. Only a few have gained popularity.
Blume
The most common type. The basis for the breeding of many varieties. A shrub up to 80 cm has a ribbed stem, and the leaves are shaped like an egg with a sharp top and large denticles along the edge, slightly lowered. About 200 hybrids with many variations of colors and patterns were developed.
It includes varieties:
- Wizard - used in landscape design to design a border. Tiny dimensions allow you to plant it in flowerpots and flowerpots. About 35 cm. Not afraid of temporary drought and prolonged exposure to sunlight. Low light leads to a decrease in red.
- Black dragon is the most decorative variety, due to its dark red or black shade. Lush bush with a convex leaf and arched contours. Height 25-30 cm. Likes good watering, top dressing and ambient light. Many signs and superstitions are associated with him.
- Henna is a golden coating on top and a dark red tint on the bottom.
Renelt
The ampelous look has long, curly stems up to 50 cm long, slightly drooping. Velvety leaves are heart-shaped with wavy edges of red color. There are pale green edging and purple streaks. Popular varieties:
- lemon and red brilliant;
- wavy butterfly;
- Raspberry Burgundy Crimson Ruffles.
Hybrid
The species is popular in home gardening. Can grow in the garden. Height is up to 1 m. The elongated leaves in the form of an oval have jagged edges and change the shade according to the amount of light received. The shaded area is green, high light is burgundy.
It includes:
- Fantasy - twisted leaves;
- Weasley is green with a touch of burgundy.
Dwarf
The most compact version (up to 30 cm) with stems hanging down and elongated leaves, most often red. It has several varieties that differ in shape and color:
- dissected and corrugated at Firebird;
- folded by The Chief;
- yellow Golden Bedder;
- Burgundy Volcano.
Forskolia
A undersized bush resembling mint in appearance. Nice green color. Often used for medical purposes.
Pumila
Lying stems allow you to give any shape to a lush shrub. Bright color of elongated leaves in the form of a heart. Refers to ampel form.
A variety of hybrid varieties
Suitable for growing in the house or in the garden.
| Title | Features |
| Cantigny royale | It is characterized by small leaves with a purple tint. |
| Lemon chiffon | Dull greens are combined with a pale purple color in the center. |
| Bonnie gold | Yellowish color and dark red edging. |
| Tilt a whirl | The round folded foliage with a fringe on the edge, similar to needles, creates a fantastic look. |
| Solar flare | Crimson spots, a yellowish mesh and a green tint are a very impressive combination. |
| Stormy weather | Its name is due to the riot of flowers: yellow, purple and emerald. |
| Fishnet stockings | Oval leaves have dark purple streaks that give them a three-dimensional shape. |
| Pele | Pistachio color with maroon inserts is characteristic, the edges are in the form of a beautiful frill. |
| Gilda | The purple middle, borders its pink color and a yellow stripe along the edge. |
| Faust | Violet color. Mostly growing in the house. |
| Watermelon | Lush bushes with wavy leaves that resemble ripe watermelon in their color. |
