Ornamental Foliage
Redhead Coleus is a vibrant foliage plant that brings dramatic color to summer gardens and containers across warm climates. With deep red leaves that intensify in full sun, this cultivar grows 18-24 inches tall and thrives in zones 10-12 as a tender perennial. It blooms from summer through fall with delicate flowers, but gardeners primarily grow it for its stunning foliage rather than its blooms. This is a plant that demands attention and rewards it with consistent watering and bright light.
Full Sun
High
10-12
24in H x 18in W
Annual
High
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The deep red coloring intensifies dramatically when planted in full sun, making Redhead one of the most visually striking foliage choices for warm-season gardens. It grows to a compact 18-24 inches, fitting easily into containers, garden beds, and mixed plantings without overwhelming nearby plants. The high water requirement keeps this plant lush and vibrant throughout the growing season, rewarding consistent moisture with dense, colorful growth from summer straight through fall.
Redhead Coleus is grown primarily as an ornamental foliage plant for containers, garden beds, and mixed borders where its striking red leaves provide bold color contrast. It works well in tropical and subtropical gardens as a seasonal annual or year-round perennial in frost-free zones, adding visual interest alongside flowering plants or as a dramatic standalone accent.
Start seeds indoors in a seed-starting mix at temperatures between 70-85°F for consistent germination. Sow seeds and keep the mix evenly moist. Transplant seedlings outdoors after the last frost date once they've developed true leaves.
Transplant outdoors after all danger of frost has passed and soil has warmed. Harden off seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over 7-10 days before planting in the garden or containers.
Pinch back growing tips early in the season to encourage bushier, more compact growth and fuller foliage development. Remove flower spikes if you prefer to focus plant energy on leaf production rather than blooms.
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