Also known as Cuban Oregano · Swedish Ivy
Coleus forsteri is a vibrant foliage plant grown for its colorful leaves. It thrives in shade to partial sun and adds a splash of color to any garden or indoor space.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, indirect light.
75% intensity
Can tolerate some direct morning sun, but avoid intense afternoon sun which can scorch leaves.
Keep soil consistently moist.
50% intensity
Avoid waterlogging; allow top inch to dry slightly.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Average room temperatures.
50% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 18-24°C. Protect from drafts and sudden temperature drops.
Feed during growing season.
50% intensity
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 2-4 weeks.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering during cooler months when growth slows.
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot, a common issue with overwatering.
Pinch back the tips of stems regularly to encourage bushier growth and prevent the plant from becoming leggy. Remove any yellowing or dead leaves promptly.
Pruning also helps maintain the desired shape and size of the plant, promoting more vibrant foliage.
Easily propagated from stem cuttings. Take 4-6 inch cuttings in spring or summer. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone.
Plant in moist potting mix or place in water until roots form, then pot up.
Repot young plants annually or when they become root-bound. Mature plants can be repotted every 2-3 years. Choose a pot that is one size larger than the current one. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Repotting provides fresh nutrients and space for root growth.
Identify plants like this with ePlant AI
Snap a photo to get care tips and match similar species on the go.
Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Coleus Forsteri (Coleus forsteri)
Where Coleus Forsteri (Coleus forsteri) is found
Density
Tap map to explore
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Coleus |
| Species | Coleus forsteri |
Similar in genus Coleus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
