Description

Coleus 'Empire Red'(height 20"-28"; upright)

'Empire Red' has leaves of bright red dappled with darker red toward the outside of the leaf. The softly scalloped edge is speckled with bright green. Tall and upright, it makes a good anchor for a combination planting. Sun tolerant.

Common Name: Coleus
Species name: Coleus scutellarioides
Temperature: Coleus come from a tropical climate and need warm temperatures to thrive. Do not plant outdoors until temperatures are reliably above 60 degrees at night. Optimal temperature range for coleus is 70°F to 100°F.
Hardiness: Tender perennial generally grown as an annual in the USA. Coleus will not survive a frost.
Exposure: Part sun or high shade for best color. Some coleus tolerate full sun. Harden off new arrivals before planting.
Water: Keep evenly moist. Avoid soggy soil with good drainage. Do not allow to get completely dry.
Fertilizer: Fertilize regularly at half-strength or use timed-release fertilizer.
Soil: Use high-quality potting soil or plant in garden soil rich in organic matter.
Blooms: Flower spikes in shades of purple and blue. Keep flower buds pinched since unchecked blooming will cause the plant to go into decline.
Spacing: 8"-15" in garden beds, pots and baskets can be planted more densely.
Ships as: Single or multi-branched starter plant averaging 3" to 9" tall. Plant immediately on arrival.
For more information please read our Coleus Care guide.