Coleus Hybridus Seeds – Vivid Foliage for Sun & Shade
Coleus (Coleus hybridus) is the undisputed king of foliage plants. Grown for its spectacular, jewel-toned leaves rather than its flowers, coleus delivers season-long color in shades of red, purple, pink, orange, yellow, and green — often all on a single leaf. Whether you’re filling shaded borders, brightening containers, or adding drama to indoor spaces, coleus is fast-growing, low-maintenance, and endlessly eye-catching. Choose from individual color varieties or our popular 200-seed Rainbow Mix for a kaleidoscope of color.
Why Gardeners Love Coleus
- Spectacular Foliage: Bold, patterned leaves in an extraordinary range of colors — the main attraction from spring through fall.
- Thrives in Shade: One of the best plants for adding color to shaded beds, patios, and porches where flowering plants struggle.
- Fast-Growing: Germinates in just 10–14 days and fills out quickly into lush, bushy plants.
- Deer-Resistant: Naturally avoided by deer — reliable in gardens with wildlife pressure.
- Excellent Houseplant: Grows beautifully indoors near a bright window, providing year-round color.
- Wide Hardiness: Grows in USDA Zones 4–10; treated as an annual in cooler climates.
Plant Details
- Latin Name: Coleus hybridus
- Type: Annual foliage plant (perennial in Zones 10+)
- Height: 12 inches
- Season of Interest: Spring through fall
- Light: Partial shade to full shade (some varieties tolerate sun)
- Soil: Moist, well-drained; pH 5.6–7.5
- USDA Zones: 4–10
- Deer Resistant: Yes
- Houseplant: Yes
Growing Guide
- Start Indoors: Sow seeds indoors 8–10 weeks before last frost in cell packs with sterile starter mix.
- Sowing: Press seeds lightly onto the soil surface — do not cover. Light is required for germination.
- Temperature: Keep soil at 70–75°F (21–24°C) and consistently moist until germination.
- Germination: Expect sprouts in 10–14 days under ideal conditions.
- Transplant: After all frost danger has passed, transplant seedlings 6–9 inches apart into the garden or containers.
- Care: Grow in rich, moist soil in partial to full shade. Pinch growing tips regularly to encourage bushy, compact growth and prevent early flowering.
- Indoors: Place near a bright window. Coleus makes an excellent year-round houseplant.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the numbered varieties and the Rainbow Mix?
Each numbered variety (1, 2, 3, etc.) is a specific coleus color or pattern. The 200-seed Rainbow Mix contains a blend of multiple varieties, giving you a wide range of colors and patterns in a single packet — ideal for mass plantings and mixed containers.
Can coleus grow in full sun?
Most coleus varieties prefer partial to full shade. Some sun-tolerant varieties exist, but in hot climates, afternoon shade is recommended to prevent leaf scorch and color fading.
How do I keep coleus bushy and full?
Pinch off the growing tips regularly, especially when flower spikes appear. This redirects energy into leaf production and keeps the plant compact and lush throughout the season.
Can I grow coleus indoors year-round?
Yes — coleus thrives as a houseplant near a bright window. It is an excellent way to overwinter favorite plants from the garden and enjoy their color all year.
How many seeds are in each pack?
Seed count varies by variety. The Rainbow Mix contains 200 seeds. Individual color varieties are sold in standard packs — see each variant for details.
Pros and cons
- Deer-resistant
- Flowering
- Fast-growing