Coleus Solenostemon 'Buttermilk' (v)
ABOUT
Solenostemon 'Buttermilk'—often known by its common name, coleus—has a striking appearance with unique foliage that makes it a popular choice for gardeners looking to add a splash of color to their landscape or interior decor. The leaves are the most notable feature of the coleus 'Buttermilk', having a distinct and varied color palette. Their base color is a creamy, pale yellow or light green, resembling the color of buttermilk, which is where this variety gets its name. From this pastel backdrop, there are often markings or veins that can vary in color, sometimes showing hints of green to deeper lime or chartreuse tones. The coleus 'Buttermilk' leaves are typically soft to the touch and have an intricate pattern that can appear almost hand-painted. The edges of the leaves can be smooth or may exhibit a delicate scalloping, occasionally with subtle ruffles that add texture and depth to the plant's overall look. This diverse mix of patterns and colors makes coleus 'Buttermilk' leaves look almost like ornate tapestries. The leaves are attached to stems that can be quite sturdy, providing a good support for the foliage. These stems, while less colorful than the leaves, still contribute to the plant's aesthetic with their elegance and the way they hold the leaves out on display. The plant's overall form can be quite bushy or dense, giving it a lush, full-bodied appearance that can be quite eye-catching in a garden or as part of an indoor plant collection. While flowering is not the main attraction for coleus 'Buttermilk', it may produce small and less conspicuous flowers under appropriate growing conditions. However, it is largely grown for its vibrant and variegated foliage that offers year-round visual interest. Overall, this coleus is valued for its decorative leaves, which can quite dramatically enhance the visual appeal of any space they occupy.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae.
Synonyms
Coleus, Painted Nettle.
Common names
Solenostemon scutellarioides, Coleus blumei, Coleus hybridus, Coleus scutellarioides.
ToxicityTo humans
Coleus 'Buttermilk' is generally not considered toxic to humans. It does not typically cause serious symptoms if ingested, and it is commonly grown for ornamental purposes rather than for consumption. However, as with any non-food plant, it is possible that some individuals may have a sensitivity or allergic reaction if they ingest parts of the plant, handle it, or come into prolonged contact with it. Minor skin irritation or an upset stomach might occur in rare cases, but significant toxicity is not expected from this plant.
To pets
Coleus 'Buttermilk', known simply as Coleus, is considered non-toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. It is not known to cause serious illness or symptoms if pets ingest parts of the plant. However, as with any plant material, ingestion can sometimes result in mild gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea, especially if the pet is not accustomed to eating the plant. If you notice your pet displaying these symptoms or any unusual behavior after ingesting Coleus, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Varies
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
10
Native area
Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: Solenostemon 'Buttermilk', commonly known as Coleus, features vibrant and patterned foliage that adds a splash of color to gardens or indoor spaces.
- Low Maintenance: Coleus is relatively easy to care for and doesn't require extensive gardening knowledge, making it suitable for novice gardeners.
- Shade Tolerance: The plant can thrive in shaded areas where many other plants may not grow well, offering versatility in garden design.
- Fast Growth: Coleus is known for its quick growth rate, providing immediate visual interest and filling in garden spaces efficiently.
- Heat Resistance: While Coleus prefers moderate conditions, many varieties cope well in warmer temperatures, making it a good choice for summer gardens.
- Versatility: Coleus can be used in a variety of garden settings, including borders, containers, hanging baskets, and as ground cover.
- Companion Planting: Its colorful leaves can complement flowering plants or create striking contrasts, enhancing overall garden aesthetics.
- Propagation Ease: Coleus is easily propagated from cuttings, allowing gardeners to create new plants for free, expanding their garden or sharing with others.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Solenostemon 'Buttermilk', commonly known as Coleus, can be used in terrariums or bottle gardens due to its vibrant foliage adding visual interest and thriving in the humid conditions these environments provide.
- Coleus can serve as a colorful leafy garnish for culinary presentations, without being intended for consumption, to enhance the aesthetic appeal of dishes.
- The striking leaves of Coleus can be used in art projects, like leaf rubbing or printing, where the patterns and veins of the leaves create beautiful natural designs on paper or fabric.
- As an educational tool, Coleus can be used to demonstrate plant propagation techniques to students and gardening enthusiasts, particularly stem cutting methods.
- It can be incorporated into a butterfly garden; although Coleus is not known for attracting butterflies, its vivid colors could complement flowering plants that do attract them.
- Coleus is an ideal candidate for 'fairy gardens' or miniature landscapes due to its diverse leaf colors and patterns, adding a mythical quality to these tiny settings.
- This plant can be used in living walls or vertical gardens where its colorful leaves can form part of an ever-changing natural tapestry.
- During festive seasons, Coleus can be incorporated into decorative displays and arrangements to provide a natural and vibrant splash of color.
- The plant can be used to contrast against green foliage plants in mixed containers to create a more dynamic visual impact.
- Coleus leaves can be used in crafting, such as making natural dyes for fabrics or creating leaf-shaped motifs for various DIY projects.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Coleus is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Coleus is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Creativity: Coleus, such as the Solenostemon 'Buttermilk', often symbolizes creativity due to their vibrant colors and unique patterns that inspire artistic design and imaginative thinking.
- Change: The ability of Coleus leaves to change color depending on light conditions can represent adaptability and transformation in life.
- Diversity: With the multitude of varieties and color combinations in Coleus plants, they are seen as a celebration of diversity and individuality.
- Beauty: Coleus plants are admired for their aesthetic appeal, symbolizing beauty and the appreciation of visual splendor.
WaterThe common name for Solenostemon 'Buttermilk' (v) is Coleus. When watering Coleus, it's crucial to maintain a consistent moisture level without overwatering. Water the plant thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which may be approximately once a week, but this frequency can vary depending on environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity. Provide enough water to soak the soil all the way through until it begins to drain from the bottom of the pot, which may be around 16-32 ounces for a standard indoor pot. During the winter months, reduce watering slightly as the plant's growth slows down.
LightColeus thrives in bright, but indirect light. The ideal spot for the plant is a location where it receives plenty of light without being exposed to the harsh midday sun, which could scorch the leaves. An east or west-facing windowsill where it gets either morning or afternoon light is optimal. If natural light is insufficient, consider using grow lights to supplement.
TemperatureColeus prefers warm temperatures and should be kept in an environment that maintains a temperature range between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. The plant can survive minimum temperatures of down to 50 degrees Fahrenheit but should not be exposed to temperatures below this, as it can cause damage. The ideal temperature for vigorous growth is typically around 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
PruningPruning Coleus is important for encouraging bushier growth and preventing legginess. Pinch back the tips of shoots regularly, especially during the active growing season in spring and summer, to promote more stems and a fuller plant. The best time to prune is when the plant is putting out new growth, which can occur every two to three weeks during these months. Remove flowers that appear, as allowing the plant to bloom can detract from the foliage's vibrancy.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Coleus 'Buttermilk' thrives in well-draining, nutrient-rich soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.0 to 7.0. A good soil mix could include two parts peat moss, one part perlite, and one part compost to ensure adequate drainage and fertility.
RepottingColeus 'Buttermilk' should be repotted every one to two years or if it outgrows its current container. Ensure to use a pot that is slightly larger and has good drainage.
Humidity & MistingColeus 'Buttermilk' prefers high humidity levels, around 50-70%. To maintain these conditions, you might use a humidifier or place the plant on a water-filled pebble tray.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in a bright, indirect light and maintain high humidity.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, protect from strong winds and hot afternoon sun.
Hardiness zone
10-11 USDA
Life cycleThe life of 'Buttermilk' Coleus (Solenostemon 'Buttermilk') begins when a seed germinates, typically requiring warmth and light to sprout. As a seedling, the plant develops its first set of true leaves, displaying early signs of the variegated foliage for which it is known. The vegetative stage is marked by rapid growth of stems and leaves, exhibiting a bushy form when given adequate light and nutrients. If allowed to flower, which is often discouraged to maintain foliage vibrancy, the coleus may produce small, less showy flowers in late summer. To extend its life, gardeners often take stem cuttings, which root easily and grow into new plants. As an annual or tender perennial, Coleus 'Buttermilk' completes its life cycle within a year or requires overwintering indoors in colder climates.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Solenostemon 'Buttermilk', commonly known as Coleus, is frequently propagated through stem cuttings. The optimal time to propagate Coleus is during the warmer months of spring and summer, when the plant is actively growing. In propagating through stem cuttings, a healthy, non-flowering stem is selected for the best results. Cut a 4-6 inch (about 10-15 cm) section of the stem just below a node, using a sharp, clean pair of scissors or a knife. Remove the lower leaves to expose the nodes, as roots will develop from these points. The cut end can be dipped in rooting hormone powder to encourage root growth, although Coleus often roots readily without it. The stem cutting should then be placed in water or a damp soil mix, kept lightly moist, and in a warm location with indirect light. Roots typically begin to form within a few weeks, after which the new Coleus plant can be transplanted into a pot with regular potting soil.
