Photo: Patrick Campbell
One of the first house plants generally available in post-war Europe was the humble coleus. In those days, it came in relatively few variations, but it has now been hybridized so extensively, it has perhaps the biggest range of foliage color of any plant. Some people may regard it as a bit ‘vulgar’, but, make no mistake, it will brighten up your living room or your flower bed no end.
The leaves of the newer cultivars are brilliantly colored, invariably in two or more hues of pink, green, yellow, maroon or a purple so deep it is almost black. Typically the serrated leaves – which resemble those of the stinging nettle, hence its name of flame nettle- have borders of one color and a contrasting center. As with so many variegated plants, the pink or purple flowers are relatively insignificant.
Coleus, now technically known as solenostemon, is easy to grow outdoors. However, it does not like full treatment from the tropical sun, and bone-dry soil will make it ‘leggy’. In fact, you will get stronger colors if your coleus enjoys filtered shade. In most plant nurseries, you will find it in a partially protected area. If it does get straggly or lose its vibrant colors, pinch the shoots back, temporarily increase the water and food supply, and if it is in a pot, move the container to a sheltered spot. One advantage of a pot is that several plants can be planted together where the contrasting variegations will show to best advantage.
Coleus has the tongue – twisting Thai name of ruu si phasom lao, but is fortunately a doddle to cultivate. It grows easily from seed ( packets are available in Phuket), but the seeds are tiny and should only be pressed lightly into the soil or potting mix. Cover the pot with plastic. Cuttings take readily and perhaps are best propagated if they are put in water for a few days where they will soon produce roots. Provided you remember that it is a succulent and therefore rather brittle, you will find it a very undemanding plant….
Not like the next case for treatment – mussaenda. Recently the garden correspondent of the Bangkok Post, wrote an article about this shrub in which she sang its praises. Her pieces are always informative and interesting, but on this occasion I do not entirely share her enthusiasm.
green galoshes 