Coleus 'Pineapple Beauty' Solenostemon scutellarioides 'Pineapple Beauty' (v)

Water

Coleus 'Pineapple Beauty' prefers a consistent watering schedule, where the plant is watered deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. This may equate to watering approximately every 1-2 weeks depending on environmental conditions, but always check the moisture level first as overwatering can be detrimental. Typically, during active growth in warmer seasons, you might need 16 ounces of water per plant every week, but in cooler months, the frequency and amount should be reduced. Ensure that the plant has good drainage to prevent waterlogging. Adjust the amount and frequency of water depending on the plant’s environment and the local climate.

Light

Coleus 'Pineapple Beauty' thrives in bright, indirect light or part shade. The ideal spot for the plant is one where it receives morning sunlight but is protected from the harsh afternoon sun which can scorch its leaves. It can adapt to various lighting conditions but the vibrancy of its foliage may be best expressed when the plant gets sufficient light without direct exposure to the sun’s intense rays.

Temperature

Coleus 'Pineapple Beauty' prefers temperatures between 60°F and 75°F for optimal growth. It can survive in temperatures as low as 50°F, but it should be protected from frost. The plant cannot tolerate temperatures below 30°F and should be kept away from drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations for it to thrive.

Pruning

Coleus 'Pineapple Beauty' benefits from periodic pruning to encourage bushier growth and to maintain its shape. Prune by pinching back the tips of the stems, particularly if the plant is becoming leggy. Pruning is best done in the spring or early summer, but it can be done at any time to remove dead or damaged leaves. This not only promotes a more compact, attractive plant but also stimulates new growth.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Coleus 'Pineapple Beauty' thrives in a well-draining, nutrient-rich potting mix with a slightly acidic to neutral pH between 6.0 and 7.0. A mix of two parts peat moss or coco coir, one part perlite, and one part compost is ideal for providing the necessary aeration and moisture retention.

Repotting

Coleus 'Pineapple Beauty' should be repotted annually or when it outgrows its current container. This frequent repotting supports its quick growth and helps rejuvenate the soil, ensuring the plant remains healthy and vibrant.

Humidity & Misting

Coleus 'Pineapple Beauty' prefers a high humidity environment, ideally between 40-70%. This plant thrives when the surrounding air has adequate moisture, but it's adaptable to average indoor humidity levels as well.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place Coleus 'Pineapple Beauty' in bright, indirect light indoors.

• Outdoor

  Grow Coleus 'Pineapple Beauty' in partial shade outside.

• Hardiness zone

  10-11 USDA

Life cycle

Solenostemon scutellarioides 'Pineapple Beauty', commonly known as Pineapple Beauty Coleus, begins as a seed, requiring warmth and moisture to germinate. After germination, the seedling emerges with its first set of true leaves, developing characteristic patterns and colors of this variety. As it grows into a juvenile plant, it requires adequate light, water, and nutrients to establish a robust root system and stem structure. The mature coleus then enters a vegetative stage, where it focuses on leaf growth, achieving its vibrant foliage displays. If not pinched back, the coleus may produce small, less conspicuous flowers, though many gardeners remove these to maintain foliage vitality. Finally, as temperatures cool or conditions become unfavorable, the Pineapple Beauty Coleus will complete its cycle, either succumbing to frost or entering dormancy if grown in a container, and can be propagated by cuttings for the next season.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Summer

• The Solenostemon scutellarioides, commonly known as Coleus 'Pineapple Beauty', can be easily propagated from cuttings, which is the most popular method. Preferably in spring or early summer, take a stem cutting about 4-6 inches long, making sure it has several leaf nodes. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting to expose the nodes. The exposed nodes are where roots will develop. Then, dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder to encourage root growth, which is an optional step. Place the cutting in a container filled with a well-draining potting mix and keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Within a couple of weeks, the cutting should start to develop roots, at which point it can eventually be transplanted into a larger pot or into the garden.