Coleus Solenostemon scutellarioides Campfire = 'Uf12823'
![coleus [Campfire]](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fplants-admin.emdemapps.com%2Fimages%2Fplants%2F%2Fimages%2F604b643d5f1ec.png&w=3840&q=75)
ABOUT
The plant known as Campfire has a visually striking appearance, characterized by its vivid foliage. The leaves exhibit a fiery blend of colors, often showcasing shades of red, orange, and yellow, reminiscent of a blazing campfire. When touched by sunlight, the colors can become even more intense, giving the plant a luminous quality. Each leaf is uniquely patterned with these warm tones, and the texture is typically velvety to the touch. The edges of the leaves may be slightly serrated, providing a subtle contrast to the softness of the leaf surface. As the plant matures, the shades of color may deepen, adding to the dramatic visual effect. The Campfire plant is not only appreciated for its vibrant leaves but also for the overall bushy and full look it presents. This makes it a favored choice for adding a splash of color to various settings. The stems hold the leaves upright, creating a mounded shape that enhances the plant's appeal. In some conditions, the plant may also produce small, insignificant flowers, but it is the lush, vividly colored foliage that is truly the star attraction. Ideal for both outdoor and indoor settings, the Campfire plant is a popular choice for its aesthetic appeal and the warm ambiance it contributes to its surroundings.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Coleus, Painted Nettle, Flame Nettle.
Common names
Coleus blumei, Coleus scutellarioides, Coleus hybridus, Coleus verschafteltii, Solenostemon blumei, Plectranthus scutellarioides
ToxicityTo humans
The most common common name for Solenostemon scutellarioides is coleus. Generally, coleus is not considered highly toxic to humans. However, as with many plants, it can cause mild irritation or an allergic reaction in some individuals if ingested or when the sap comes in contact with the skin. If ingested, symptoms may include upset stomach, vomiting, or diarrhea. It is advisable to keep plants away from small children who might chew on them.
To pets
Coleus, the common name for Solenostemon scutellarioides, is considered to have a low level of toxicity to pets such as cats and dogs. Ingestion may cause gastrointestinal upset, including vomiting and diarrhea, mainly if consumed in large quantities. It's recommended to prevent pets from chewing on this plant to avoid potential discomfort.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Annuals
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Mixed
Height
2 feet (60 cm)
Spread
2 feet (60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
10
Native area
Tropical Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Colorful Foliage: The plant is well-known for its vibrant and colorful foliage, which can add aesthetic appeal to gardens and landscapes.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, making it an easy choice for gardeners of all levels.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, it can tolerate periods of low water availability, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Heat Resistance: It is capable of withstanding high temperatures, making it suitable for warm climates.
- Versatility in Landscaping: Can be used in a variety of settings, including borders, containers, and as accent plants.
- Attracts Pollinators: Flowers may attract bees and butterflies, benefiting pollination in the garden.
- Fast Growing: It grows quickly, providing rapid coverage and gratification in garden spaces.
- Seasonal Interest: Offers visual interest throughout the growing season with its changing leaf colors.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Coleus 'Campfire' can be used in terrariums as a colorful foliage plant that thrives in the humid, controlled environment.
- In cooler climates, it can be grown as a seasonal indoor houseplant to add a splash of color to interior spaces.
- It serves as an excellent teaching tool in botany or horticulture classes for studying plant growth, leaf structure, and color variation.
- Coleus 'Campfire' can be used in textile design, providing inspiration for patterns and colors in fabrics and wallpapers.
- Its vibrant leaves can be used in the art of pressed flower crafts, to create decorative bookmarks, cards, or wall art.
- The plant can be incorporated into landscape design software as a digital element for virtual garden planning.
- Used as a natural dye source, the leaves may yield colors for fabric dyeing or in art projects.
- The plant can be a creative muse in culinary presentation, with its leaves used as a colorful, non-toxic garnish for plates, though it should not be consumed.
- Coleus 'Campfire' can be part of an educational kit for children to learn about plant growth and the care of living things.
- For event décor, such as weddings or celebrations, sprigs of Coleus 'Campfire' can be used in table centerpieces or floral arrangements without cutting from living plants.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Coleus is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Coleus is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Vibrancy: Solenostemon scutellarioides Campfire, commonly known as Coleus 'Campfire', is often associated with vibrancy due to its bright, vivid foliage that adds a pop of color to any space.
- Creativity: The coleus's variety of patterns and colors can symbolize creativity, inspiring gardeners and artists alike with its unique and diverse appearance.
- Change: Coleus can also represent change or transformation, as it can change its color intensity depending on light exposure, reflecting life's dynamic nature.
- Sensitivity: Because coleus plants can be sensitive to their environments, wilting in extreme sun or cold, they symbolize sensitivity to one’s surroundings and adaptability.
WaterColeus 'Campfire' prefers consistently moist soil, so it's crucial to water it when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Generally, this means watering thoroughly once or twice a week, but this can vary depending on climate and indoor conditions. Use enough water to soak the soil all the way through until it begins to drain from the bottom—this might be approximately half a gallon for a medium-sized pot. During the growing season in spring and summer, you may need to water more frequently due to increased light and temperature. However, in the winter months, reduce the amount of water to avoid soggy soil, which can lead to root rot.
LightColeus 'Campfire' thrives best in bright, indirect light but can also tolerate some direct morning sun. It should not be placed in full afternoon sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves. An ideal spot would be near an east-facing window where it can receive gentle morning sunlight and consistent bright, indirect light throughout the day.
TemperatureThe Coleus 'Campfire' prefers temperatures between 60°F and 75°F for optimal growth. Avoid exposing the plant to temperatures below 50°F, as cold drafts and chilly weather can damage it. The ideal temperature range allows the coleus to maintain its vibrant foliage and overall health.
PruningPruning Coleus 'Campfire' encourages bushier growth and prevents legginess. It's recommended to pinch back the tips of the stems periodically throughout the growing season. Trimming can be done every couple of weeks or when you notice the plant is getting too tall. The best time for major pruning is early spring, before the new growth starts.
CleaningAs needed
SoilColeus 'Campfire' prefers a well-draining, rich soil mix with a slightly acidic to neutral pH between 6.0 and 7.0. To create the best soil mix, combine two parts peat moss or coco coir, one part perlite or vermiculite, and one part compost or worm castings for nutrients.
RepottingColeus 'Campfire' should be repotted every year or two, especially when you notice the plant becoming root-bound or the soil quality degrading. Repotting in spring is often the best time as the plant enters a period of active growth.
Humidity & MistingColeus 'Campfire' thrives in high humidity levels, ideally between 40% and 70%. If the ambient humidity is low, especially during winter months or in arid climates, using a humidifier or placing the plant on a water-filled pebble tray can help maintain these conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright, indirect light and keep soil moist for indoor Coleus 'Campfire'.
Outdoor
Place Coleus 'Campfire' in dappled sunlight and moist, rich soil outdoors.
Hardiness zone
10-11 USDA
Life cycleColeus 'Campfire', scientifically known as Solenostemon scutellarioides 'Campfire', begins life as a seed germinating in warm, moist soil, typically in the warmth of spring or early summer. Upon sprouting, the seedling quickly develops distinctive colored foliage, growing into a young plant with its characteristic vibrant leaves. As it matures, coleus enters a vigorous vegetative state where it focuses on leaf growth, often used in gardens for its decorative foliage rather than flowers. If allowed, it may produce small, less conspicuous flowers on spikes, but many gardeners pinch these back to encourage fuller leaf growth. As an annual, it completes its life cycle within one year, dying back with the first frost in colder climates, or it may be brought indoors to overwinter in more temperate zones. At the end of its life cycle or season, it can be propagated easily by cuttings to create new plants for the following season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Coleus, known scientifically as Solenostemon scutellarioides and particularly the Campfire variety 'UF12823', is most commonly propagated through stem cuttings. This method is popular for its simplicity and high success rate. To propagate Coleus from cuttings, a healthy stem is cut just below a leaf node using a sharp, sterilized pair of scissors or pruning shears. The cut should be made about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) from the stem's tip. The lower leaves are then removed, and the cut end is dipped in rooting hormone powder to encourage root growth. The cutting is then placed in a pot filled with a moist potting mix or directly into a cup of water. If using soil, the cutting should be kept in a warm environment with indirect sunlight and consistent moisture until roots have developed, typically within a couple of weeks. Once rooted, the new Coleus plant can be transferred to its permanent location.
