Coleus comosus, synonym Plectranthus ornatus, is a flowering plant from the mint family Lamiaceae, native to eastern Africa (Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda).A plant sold under the name "Coleus canina" or "scaredy cat plant" is supposed to scare off cats and dogs. An attempt to register "Coleus canina" to receive plant variety protection failed as it was considered to be only a clone of Coleus comosus.
Plectranthus ornatus has strong disease resistance and is generally not susceptible to illnesses. However, it can be affected by pests and diseases present in its environment. These infections are typically mild. Regarding care, this plant needs moderate maintenance. It should be pruned regularly to preserve a neat appearance and healthy growth. Applying fertilizer can also help encourage flowering. Plectranthus ornatus is appropriate for anyone with an outdoor area, such as a garden or patio, and does not demand extensive plant-care experience. It may need more attention when cultivated indoors.
How to keep Plectranthus Ornatus.
Light
Plectranthus ornatus originates from habitats such as forest understories and rocky areas, where it grows in natural shade. It prefers partial sun but can tolerate full sun or full shade, showing its versatile and hardy nature.
Temperature
Plectranthus ornatus is quite adaptable to temperature, able to endure higher heat and wide temperature swings. In hot weather, care should be taken with watering and providing adequate shade to prevent sunburn. On the other hand, it is fairly sensitive to low temperatures; while it can tolerate some cold, very low temperatures may cause frost damage.
Fertilizer
The best time to fertilize a Plectranthus ornatus is in early spring, when it is coming out of dormancy and starting active growth. Fertilization supplies essential nutrients for healthy development. Although Plectranthus ornatus has relatively low fertilizer requirements, an annual application can improve its survival and encourage better, longer-lasting flowers.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Herb
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Plectranthus
- Family
- Lamiaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 9-11
- Mature Height
- 30 cm to 61 cm
- Mature Spread
- 30 cm to 46 cm
- Leaf Color
- Light Green, Dark Green
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Color
- White, Lavender
- Flower Size
- 1.02 cm to 1.52 cm
- Bloom Time
- Summer, Fall
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Fall, Early winter, Mid winter
Other names.
