Coleus ‘Inferno’ is a popular and visually striking foliage plant known for its brilliant colors. It adds a dramatic touch to garden beds and containers and is celebrated for its ease of cultivation, making it suitable for both novice and experienced gardeners. Its overall appeal stems from its dynamic appearance.
What Makes Coleus Inferno Unique
Coleus ‘Inferno’ stands out with its fiery color palette. Its leaves display saturated, deep orange hues, often transitioning to scarlet with coppery-bronze undertones and sometimes featuring contrasting edges. This cultivar has a bushy, upright growth habit, typically reaching 14 to 28 inches tall and spreading 14 to 24 inches. Its textured, serrated foliage contributes to its distinct appearance. The consistent color, even in varying light conditions, enhances its popularity.
Essential Care for Vibrant Growth
Light Needs
Coleus ‘Inferno’ thrives in part sun to full shade. Morning sun and afternoon shade are optimal for foliage color. Too much direct sunlight causes leaf scorch and fading; insufficient light leads to duller hues and leggy growth.
Watering Practices
Coleus ‘Inferno’ prefers evenly moist soil that is not soggy. Water when the top inch or two of soil feels dry. Overwatering leads to root rot; prolonged dry spells cause leaves to wilt and brown. Container-grown plants may require more frequent watering, sometimes daily during hot weather.
Soil Requirements
Coleus ‘Inferno’ grows best in rich, well-draining soil. Compacted or poorly draining soil can cause root rot. Amending with organic matter, such as compost, improves soil structure and nutrient content. Prefers a soil pH between 5.8 and 7.0.
Temperature and Humidity
Coleus ‘Inferno’ requires warm temperatures; it is sensitive to cold and frost. Do not plant outdoors until nighttime temperatures are reliably above 60°F (16°C). The optimal temperature range is 70-100°F (21-38°C). High humidity is beneficial; occasional misting or a humidity tray can help.
Fertilizing
In rich soil, Coleus ‘Inferno’ may not need additional fertilization. For container plants or less fertile soil, apply a balanced all-purpose fertilizer during spring and summer. A slow-release fertilizer at planting or a half-strength liquid fertilizer monthly is sufficient. Over-fertilization can reduce foliage vibrancy.
Pruning and Maintenance
Regular pruning maintains shape and promotes bushy growth. Pinching back growing tips, just above a leaf pair, encourages new stems, leading to a denser, fuller appearance and preventing legginess.
Remove flower stalks as they appear. Coleus flowers are secondary to the foliage and draw energy from leaf production. Pinching off flower buds redirects energy to developing more leaves, enhancing color and bushiness.
Propagating Coleus Inferno
Propagating Coleus ‘Inferno’ is straightforward using stem cuttings.
- Select a healthy stem and snip a 2 to 3-inch long section, ensuring it has at least one node.
- Remove any leaves from the lower portion of the cutting to expose the nodes.
- Cuttings can be rooted in water or moist potting mix.
- When rooting in water, place the prepared cutting in a glass of water, ensuring the nodes are submerged.
- When using soil, insert the cutting into a pot filled with moistened, sterile potting mix.
- Roots typically develop within two to three weeks, after which the new plant can be transplanted.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Color Loss
Loss of vibrant color often signals incorrect light exposure. Faded or bleached colors suggest too much direct sun; dull colors indicate insufficient light. Adjusting to morning sun and afternoon shade can restore characteristic hues.
Leggy Growth
Leggy growth (long, sparse stems) results from inadequate light or lack of pruning. Consistent pinching back of growing tips encourages bushier growth and prevents legginess.
Pests
Aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites are common pests that can infest Coleus ‘Inferno’. A strong water spray can dislodge them, and insecticidal soap treats severe infestations. Slugs may also cause holes in leaves.
Leaf Problems
Browning edges or wilting often indicate inconsistent watering. Browning suggests underwatering; wilting can result from both underwatering and overwatering. Checking soil moisture regularly and adjusting watering frequency to maintain consistent moisture, avoiding soggy or completely dry conditions, will help resolve these issues.