Black Dragon is an eye-catching coleus variety with dramatic, tongue-shaped serrated leaves. Its rich red centers and striking black edges create bold contrast, making it perfect for shaded garden beds or containers.
Coleus Growing Guide
Outdoor Sowing (Directly in the Garden)
- Timing: Plant Coleus outdoors after all danger of frost has passed and soil temperatures reach 60°F. Coleus is extremely frost-sensitive and thrives in warm conditions. In most regions, this means planting in late spring.
- Location: Select a location with dappled sunlight or partial shade. While Coleus can grow in full sun in cooler climates, it generally prefers protection from intense afternoon sun. Morning sun with afternoon shade is ideal.
- Soil Preparation: Prepare rich, well-draining soil by incorporating organic matter or compost. Coleus prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH between 6.0-7.0. Loosen the soil to a depth of 6 inches to promote good root development.
- Planting Seeds:
- Scatter seeds on the soil surface and press lightly to ensure good contact. Seeds need light to germinate, so do not cover them with soil.
- Space seeds or thin seedlings to 12-18 inches apart, depending on the variety's mature size.
- For larger varieties, consider spacing up to 24 inches apart.
- Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during germination, which typically takes 10-14 days. Young plants need regular watering until well-established.
Indoor Sowing (Starting Seeds Indoors)
- Timing: Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last expected frost date in your area.
- Containers: Use clean containers with drainage holes, filled with a sterile, light seed-starting mix. Cell packs or small pots work well for starting Coleus.
- Planting:
- Sprinkle seeds on the surface of pre-moistened soil.
- Press seeds gently into the surface but don't cover them.
- Maintain high humidity by covering containers with clear plastic until germination.
- Germination:
- Provide bottom heat of 70-75°F for optimal germination.
- Keep soil consistently moist using a spray bottle to avoid displacing seeds.
- Expect germination within 10-14 days under ideal conditions.
- Transplanting: Move seedlings outdoors after all danger of frost has passed and nighttime temperatures stay consistently above 55°F. Harden off plants gradually over 7-10 days before transplanting.
General Care Tips for Coleus
- Light Requirements: Provide bright, indirect light or filtered sunlight. Sun tolerance varies by variety - darker-leaved cultivars generally tolerate more sun than lighter ones.
- Watering: Maintain consistent moisture. Coleus is not drought-tolerant and will wilt quickly if soil dries out. Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry.
- Fertilizing: Feed plants every 2-3 weeks during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Reduce feeding in fall and winter for indoor plants.
- Pruning:
- Pinch back growing tips regularly to encourage bushiness.
- Remove flower spikes as they appear to maintain foliage vigor.
- Trim leggy stems to maintain shape and promote fuller growth.
- Pest and Disease Control: Monitor for common pests like mealybugs, whiteflies, and spider mites. Avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf spots and stem rot. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
- Indoor Care:
- Coleus makes an excellent houseplant when provided with bright, indirect light.
- Maintain temperatures between 65-75°F and avoid cold drafts.
- Increase humidity by misting or using a pebble tray with water.
- Propagation:
- Take 4-6 inch stem cuttings for easy propagation.
- Remove lower leaves and place stems in water or moist potting mix.
- Roots typically develop within 2-3 weeks.
