Coleus scutellarioides inflorescence with purple flowers

Coleus scutellarioides (Coleus)

Native to Southeast Asia and Malaysia, the vibrant patterns and color combinations found on its leaves have made this plant a favored choice among garden enthusiasts worldwide. This species boasts a plethora of cultivars and hybrids. Naturalized in Colombia and cultivated below 7,000 feet. On the Caribbean coast of Colombia, it needs almost daily watering. This plant stops looking good as it ages and does not appear to live long. May have psycho-activity properties. Photographed in Colombia, Ecuador and Florida.

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Red and yellow Coleus scutellarioides leaves in sunlight

A close-up of a Coleus scutellarioides flower spike, showing delicate purple and white blossoms standing above reddish-maroon leaves with scalloped edges

Coleus scutellarioides leaves in orange and yellow colors

Burgundy and pink Coleus scutellarioides leaves with green borders growing on top of a tree stump

Red Coleus scutellarioides leaves and infloresences

A dense bush of Coleus scutellarioides in full bloom, with long upright spikes of tiny pale bluish flowers rising above richly colored foliage in shades of red, green, and yellow

A close-up of Coleus scutellarioides with rich red-maroon leaves and two vertical flower spikes displaying delicate lavender and white blooms

Multi-colored Coleus scutellarioides leaves

A vibrant cluster of Coleus scutellarioides plants with multicolored leaves in vivid shades of green, magenta, and burgundy, topped by vertical spikes of small purple-blue flowers