Coleus is often seen as background filler in the garden world—tucked between bolder bloomers or used as a space filler in mixed planters. But these plants are so much more than supporting cast. With leaves that come in electric shades of lime, burgundy, magenta, and every blend in between, coleus deserves a spotlight of its own.
Coleus is often seen as background filler in the garden world—tucked between bolder bloomers or used as a space filler in mixed planters. But these plants are so much more than supporting cast. With leaves that come in electric shades of lime, burgundy, magenta, and every blend in between, coleus deserves a spotlight of its own.
A Living Palette
Coleus varieties bring an artistic energy to the garden. Some leaves look splattered with paint, others edged in neon or dusted with speckles. Whether you prefer soft contrast or eye-searing vibrancy, there’s a coleus that fits the mood. They’re one of the few plants where you can build an entire display out of foliage alone—no flowers needed to make the pot feel alive.
Coleus varieties bring an artistic energy to the garden. Some leaves look splattered with paint, others edged in neon or dusted with speckles. Whether you prefer soft contrast or eye-searing vibrancy, there’s a coleus that fits the mood. They’re one of the few plants where you can build an entire display out of foliage alone—no flowers needed to make the pot feel alive.
And if you do like to mix and match, coleus is a generous companion. We love combining lime green types with deep wine-colored varieties, or using soft watermelon blends to lighten up a shady corner. With so much variation in shape and texture, it’s like designing with fabric instead of plants.
Built for the Curious Gardener
One of the best things about coleus is how quickly they respond to care. Topping a plant can lead to fuller growth within weeks, and cuttings root easily—whether placed in soil for strong long-term growth or started in water to enjoy watching the roots form. They’re forgiving and enthusiastic—which makes them ideal for both new plant lovers and seasoned propagators looking for a fun, low-pressure addition to their lineup.
They also flower! Toward late summer, you may see delicate lavender-blue spikes emerging from the tops. Some growers pinch them off to encourage more leaf growth, but others let them bloom as part of the show. Either way, it’s one more reminder that coleus isn’t just filler—it’s a full experience.
Color Without Compromise
If you’re looking for fast-growing, low-maintenance plants with visual payoff, coleus is hard to beat. It plays well with others, but it can also stand proudly on its own. At Third Orbit Flora, we believe plants like this deserve attention not just for how they look, but for how much joy they return.
Soon you’ll be able to get some of these beauties from us!
Many of the coleus plants we will offer were grown from seed right here at Third Orbit Flora, making each one a little different from the next. Others come from well-established parent plants in our network, carefully propagated for their standout color and form.
Let the leaves do the talking. Your summer deserves a little color.
By: Kayla, Founder, Third Orbit Flora
Photo Credits: All images in this post were taken by us here at TOF. The banner image above was created by Kayla using real images of our coleus stock.
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