Coleus barbatus — a medium houseplant, prefers full sun light
SPECIMEN · FROM THE LIBRARY
Coleus barbatus

Coleus Barbatus

Updated · 1,724 observations
ON THIS PLANT

Blue Spur Flower (Plectranthus barbatus, Coleus barbatus) may reach a height of five feet and has vigorous runners that can choke out native plants if not controlled. However, because of their destructive nature, they are excellent plants for constructing thick garden beds. The blue spur flower features deep green foliage and sends up stalks with six to eight deep blue-to-purple flowers. Make sure your region is free of invasive pests before you start planting. Planting them in pots is one technique to avoid undesired spread. Plectranthus thrives in containers and may be kept inside.

A note from PlantMom

Indian coleus is fairly disease-resistant and generally not prone to illnesses. Still, it can be affected by pests and diseases present in its environment. Such infections are typically not severe. Carewise, this plant needs moderate maintenance. It should be pruned regularly to maintain a neat appearance and encourage healthy growth. Fertilizing can also aid in promoting flowering. Indian coleus is appropriate for anyone with outdoor space, such as a garden or patio, and does not demand extensive care experience. It may need more attention when cultivated indoors.

— PlantMom
CARE GUIDE

How to keep Coleus Barbatus.

Light

Indian coleus flourishes in intense warmth from the sun and can also tolerate moderate sun exposure. Insufficient sunlight can hinder its growth, while too much sun can cause leaf scorch. Its light needs do not change appreciably across different growth stages. Native to environments with plentiful solar exposure, the plant is well adapted to such conditions.

Water

Because the Plectranthus genus is drought hardy, it does not require much irrigation. Watering on a regular basis is still useful, but avoid the impulse to water it all the time. If you live in a hot, dry area, you may need to water your plants more frequently to keep them healthy. Overwatering, on the other hand, may soon destroy your plant. When the top inch of soil seems dry, water it.

Humidity

This plant will thrive in moderate humidity, which is probably the level in your home. However, misting it a few times a week can be very beneficial. Make sure the room has good ventilation.

Temperature

Indian coleus comes from tropical areas, where the climate is usually warm and humid. As a result, it is adapted to high temperatures and humidity. It does not tolerate sudden temperature shifts and prefers a consistent temperature, so it is important to avoid indoor temperature fluctuations. It generally cannot withstand cold and requires warmer conditions to grow. If the surrounding temperature falls too low, the plant may stop growing or even die.

Fertilizer

The best time to fertilize an Indian coleus is in early spring, as it breaks dormancy. This encourages overall growth and supports flower development. Fertilization improves foliage, stems, and branches while encouraging large, vibrant, and long-lasting flowers. It helps transport nutrients from the roots to the blooms and enhances the plant's health and resistance to disease.

Pruning

No pruning is required for your Blue Spur Flower.

CHARACTERISTICS

Botanical profile.

Plant Type
Herb, Shrub
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Coleus
Family
Lamiaceae
Hardiness Zone
10-11
Mature Height
0.91 m to 2.13 m
Mature Spread
1.83 m to 2.44 m
Leaf Color
Green
Leaf Type
Evergreen
Flower Color
Lavender
Flower Size
1.27 cm to 1.52 cm
Bloom Time
Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer
Planting Time
Spring
Harvest Time
Summer
Native Area
Africa
ALSO KNOWN AS

Other names.

en Ajwain Plant en Indian borage en Orégano en Boldo en Wild Oregano en Forskohlii en Plecthantrus en Caraway en Buui en Panikuruke
PLATES
Coleus barbatus leaf
PLATE 01 · leaf
Coleus barbatus leaf
PLATE 02 · leaf
Coleus barbatus flower
PLATE 03 · flower
Coleus barbatus flower
PLATE 04 · flower
Coleus barbatus fruit
PLATE 05 · fruit
Coleus barbatus fruit
PLATE 06 · fruit
ALSO IN THE LIBRARY

You might also like.