Discover how coleus was discovered and how this plant was popular during Victorian Times. Learn interesting facts about this velvety beauty’s history.
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Welcome to HealthyHouseplants.com, where we dive into the world of indoor gardening! Today, I’m sharing a special plant story as part of the My Plant Story series—this one’s all about the beautiful coleus. This plant actually holds a special place in my gardening journey. My indoor gardening adventures began with coleus back in the 1970s when I was just seven years old.
Back then, houseplants and macrame hangers were everywhere, and I spent my allowance on a velvety-leaved coleus I found at a drugstore. I kept it alive, researched it, and even began propagating it—all before the internet! This fondness for coleus stayed with me, and I often grow them from seeds to this day.
Coleus is a historical houseplant with roots going back to Victorian times, where it was a favorite for indoor gardeners. It was even cultivated by Carl Ludwig Blume in the Dutch colony of Java. Over time, coleus has been hybridized, offering a stunning variety of colors and leaf shapes. You’ll find coleus varieties with rounded or thin leaves, often with velvety textures. This plant, recently reclassified under the genus Solenostemon, is part of the mint family, making it a great choice for indoor and outdoor gardens in warmer climates.
If you live in a colder climate, coleus will die back in winter outdoors, but it will thrive indoors year-round in a bright spot. The name “coleus” comes from the Greek word “koleos,” meaning sheath, referencing the sheath-like stamens in its flowers.
Coleus had a heyday in Victorian England, where its unique shapes and colors even commanded high auction prices. Today, coleus can brighten up your home as well. Place it in a sunny indoor spot, and watch it flourish! Stay tuned for our next video, where I’ll discuss keeping your coleus healthy and happy indoors.
Thanks for stopping by today! Please leave a comment if you have indoor gardening questions, and don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell for updates on new videos.
FAQs on Growing and Caring for Coleus Plants Indoors
What is a coleus plant, and why is it popular?
Coleus is a vibrant houseplant known for its stunning colors and leaf patterns. Popular since the Victorian era, coleus adds a bright, ornamental touch to indoor gardens.
How do you care for a coleus plant indoors?
Coleus thrives indoors in a brightly lit area. Keep the soil moist but not soggy, and avoid direct sunlight to prevent leaf burn.
Can coleus survive winter outdoors?
Coleus cannot tolerate frost. If you live in a colder climate, grow coleus indoors during winter to ensure it stays healthy.
How can I propagate coleus?
Coleus is easy to propagate. Simply take stem cuttings, place them in water or moist soil, and watch for roots to develop in a few weeks.
Why are coleus leaves velvety?
Some coleus varieties have velvety leaves, adding to their charm. The texture results from the unique hybrid varieties available today.
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