Plant Profile: Solenostemon
Other Annuals and Perennials
Traits: Sun, Shade, Feature, Container
A member of the mint (Lamiaceae) family, this genus of around 60 species of shrubby, sometimes succulent perennials comes from the tropics of Africa and Asia. It is known in cultivation through just a few of its members, of which only the coleus or painted nettle (Solenostemon scutellarioides) is common. Though the genus includes several other species with interestingly colored foliage, they have never enjoyed the same popularity with gardeners. The common name of painted nettle certainly aptly describes these plants, with their leaves that resemble those of the nettle, but with the superb marking and coloring that makes them favorites with gardeners.
These plants may be erect, prostrate, or sprawling, and are sometimes downy or succulent. Best known to gardeners is Solenostemon scutellarioides, which is grown for its colorful and striking foliage that is often variegated or blotched. The leaves are pointed oval in shape and have toothed or scalloped edges. The flowers are usually small and white, cream, or blue in color, and would be easily overlooked except that they are borne in short spikes.
Solenostemon species are generally tender and need winter protection outside the subtropics. In cooltemperate climates grow these plants in the conservatory, as house plants, or outdoors as annual bedding plants. Plant in a sunny or partly shaded position with moist well-drained soil. To keep the foliage lush, pinch out flower spikes as they develop. The plants may be propagated from seed, though cuttings strike so easily that this is not usually necessary.