Coleus care guide
Coleus blumei
Quick answer
Water your Coleus when the top 3 cm (1.2 in) of soil feel dry to the touch. In summer that’s typically every 4 to 6 days.
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- Light
- Bright light, some sun
- Typical interval
- Every 4 to 6 days · summer
Every 6 to 10 days · winter - Climate
- 18–27 °C (64–81 °F)
- Humidity
- 50–70%
- Pet safety
- Toxic to cats and dogs
When and how to water
3 cm (1.2 in)
- Summer · Jun–AugEvery 4 to 6 days
- Winter · Dec–FebEvery 6 to 10 days
Use room-temperature water and let any excess drain. Never leave the pot sitting in standing water.
Adjust the timing for the light at the plant, the pot’s size and material, and the humidity indoors. Terracotta dries faster than glazed ceramic.
Light and placement
Bright light, some sun
Coleus needs bright light and a little gentle direct sun, such as morning sun. Strong midday sun can scorch the leaves. Place it close to an east- or west-facing window.
Feeding
Feed your Coleus every 21 days while it’s actively growing. Use a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer at half the strength on the label, and only on soil that’s already damp. Feeding dry roots can scorch them.
When growth pauses, skip the fertilizer and let it rest.
Temperature & humidity
Climate18–27 °C (64–81 °F)
Humidity50–70%
During leafy growth, aim for 18–27 °C (64–81 °F). For routine indoor care, keep it above about 12 °C (54 °F) and avoid cold drafts. This is a care guideline, not an exact damage threshold. Cooler overwintering depends on the species and its rest conditions.
It does best at 50–70% humidity. It doesn’t need misting.
Toxic to pets?
Yes. Keep it out of reach.
Wear gloves when you cut or repot it. Keep the sap away from your eyes and skin, and wash your hands afterwards.
Pet-safe alternatives with similar light
Common questions
How often should I water a Coleus?
Water your Coleus (Coleus blumei) when the top 3 cm (1.2 in) of soil feel dry to the touch. In summer, that’s typically every 4 to 6 days. In winter, slow down to every 6 to 10 days.
Sources4 references
- Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew: Plants of the World OnlineAccepted-name relationship and synonym record
- North Carolina State University Extension Gardener Plant ToolboxPreviously known as · description · cultural conditions · insects and diseases
- Royal Horticultural SocietySynonyms · growing conditions · cultivation · pests and diseases
- University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine: Veterinary Poisonous Plant GardenPlot 2: Coleus (Coleus scutellarioides) · toxic compound and symptoms
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