Water
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Reduce watering in cooler months when the plant's growth slows down. Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Also known as Cosmic Lobster · Cosmic Lobster Flower · Oregano
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Scaredy Cat Plant (Coleus comosus) is an ornamental foliage plant known for its vibrant, often variegated leaves. It's a popular choice for adding color to shaded areas.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers bright, indirect light. Can tolerate some direct morning sun.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Well-draining potting mix.
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-24°C. Protect from frost.
Outdoor, Indoor
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 2/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 2/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Mildly toxic if ingested.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Reduce watering in cooler months when the plant's growth slows down. Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Prune regularly to maintain a bushy shape and encourage denser growth. Pinch back the tips of stems to promote branching. Remove any leggy or overgrown stems.
Pruning also helps to prevent the plant from becoming too tall and straggly. Deadhead spent flowers.
Easily propagated from stem cuttings. Take 10-15 cm cuttings from healthy stems, remove lower leaves, and dip in rooting hormone. Plant in moist potting mix or place in water until roots form.
Keep cuttings in a warm, bright location.
Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Repot in spring before the active growing season begins to minimize stress.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Scaredy Cat Plant (Coleus comosus)
Where Scaredy Cat Plant (Coleus comosus) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Coleus |
| Species | Coleus comosus |
Similar in genus Coleus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
