Vibrant Shade-Loving Foliage Coleus Seeds Painted Nettle for Indoor Color – Coleus scutellarioides

Description Coleus · Painted Nettle Coleus scutellarioides (syn. Solenostemon scutellarioides) – Vibrant foliage in endless color combinations A tender perennial grown for its spectacular, multicolored leaves. Coleus thrives in shaded gardens, containers, and indoor spaces, offering a dazzling display of burgundy, lime, pink, purple, and gold. Easy to grow from seed, it adds instant impact to borders, mixed plantings, or as a houseplant. Common Name: Coleus, Painted Nettle, Flame Nettle Latin Name: Coleus scutellarioides Plant Height: 12–36 in (30–90 cm) depending on cultivar Seeds per Gram: ≈ 3,500–4,500 seeds/gram (very fine seed) Life Cycle: Tender perennial (USDA 10–11), grown as annual elsewhere Foliage Color: Mixed: Red, Pink, Lime, Burgundy, Gold, Purple, Chartreuse Non-GMO · Open-pollinated · Shade tolerant · Brilliant foliage all season Botanical & Variety Details Common name(s)Coleus, Painted Nettle, Flame Nettle, Joseph’s Coat Latin nameColeus scutellarioides (formerly Solenostemon scutellarioides, Plectranthus scutellarioides) Mature height30–90 cm (12–36″) — compact to tall varieties; bushy, well-branched habit Seeds per gram~3,500–4,500 seeds/gram (approx. 100,000–125,000 seeds/oz) Growth cyclePerennial in zones 10–11; grown as annual in cooler climates. Fast-growing foliage from spring to frost. Ornamental periodLate spring through first hard frost — continuous color without deadheading Unique trait Incredible leaf patterns: solid, veined, edged, or splashed · Perfect for shade and containers �� Planting & Growing Guide �� Best planting seasonSow indoors 8–10 weeks before last frost; transplant outdoors after all danger of frost has passed ��️ Ideal temperatureGermination 70–75°F (21–24°C); grows best in 60–85°F (15–29°C). Protect from cold below 50°F (10°C). ☀️ Shade requirementPartial shade to full shade — Bright, indirect light enhances color. Avoid harsh afternoon sun; too much direct sun can scorch leaves and fade patterns. �� Sowing rate (per m²)0.2–0.5 grams per square meter (approx. 700–2,200 seeds/m²) for a dense, colorful display. �� Sowing depthSurface sow — press seeds lightly into soil; do not cover as light is required for germination. �� Water & careKeep seedbed evenly moist until germination (7–14 days). Once established, water when top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid wet foliage to reduce disease. �� Spacing after thinningThin or transplant to 10–15 inches (25–38 cm) apart to allow for full, bushy growth. �� Days to maturityFoliage color develops 8–10 weeks from sowing; pinch back tips to encourage branching. Light requirement: Coleus thrives in dappled shade or morning sun with afternoon shade. In deep shade, colors may be less intense. For the richest foliage, provide bright, filtered light. Direct midday sun should be avoided, especially in warmer zones. Pro density tip: For mass plantings or landscape beds, use 0.3 g/m² and thin to 12″ apart. For container combinations, sow a pinch per pot and thin to strongest seedlings. Coleus also roots easily from cuttings if you want to multiply favorite colors. Sowing quick guide: Spring indoors · Part shade to shade · 0.2–0.5 g/m² · Surface sow, light required Germ. 70–75°F | Protect from hot sun Pinch stem tips to promote bushiness. Remove flower spikes to keep foliage vibrant. Excellent for shady borders, window boxes, and as indoor accent plants. Deer tend to avoid Coleus.