Coleus 'Pineapplette' Solenostemon scutellarioides 'Pineapplette' (v)

Water

Coleus 'Pineapplette' should be watered thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry; typically, this is about once a week, but the frequency may increase with higher temperatures or lower humidity. Use room temperature water and avoid wetting the foliage to prevent disease. Depending on the size of the pot, you may need approximately 8-16 ounces of water each time, ensuring that the water drains out of the bottom. Always check the soil moisture before watering as overwatering can lead to root rot. During winter, reduce watering to prevent soggy soil as the plant's growth slows down.

Light

Coleus 'Pineapplette' thrives in bright, indirect light but can also tolerate filtered sunlight. It should be placed in a spot where it receives plenty of light without being subjected to the harsh midday sun, such as near an east or west-facing window. Avoid deep shade as it can cause the vibrant foliage to lose its color and vitality.

Temperature

Coleus 'Pineapplette' prefers temperatures between 65°F and 85°F, avoiding extremes. It should not be exposed to temperatures below 50°F, as cold can damage the plant. Ideal growing conditions are warm and consistent, so keep the plant away from drafts and heating or cooling vents.

Pruning

Coleus 'Pineapplette' should be pruned to encourage bushy growth and to maintain its shape. Pinch off the growing tips and flower spikes as needed throughout the growing season to stimulate branching. The best time for heavier pruning is in the spring or early summer when the plant can recover quickly with new growth.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Coleus 'Pineapplette' thrives in a well-draining, fertile potting mix with a considerable amount of organic matter. A blend of two parts peat moss or coco coir, one part perlite or sand, and one part compost or well-rotted manure will create an ideal environment. Maintain a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0 for optimal growth.

Repotting

Coleus 'Pineapplette' should be repotted annually or when it becomes root-bound, which is typically once every 1-2 years. Choose a container that is one size larger than the current one to allow space for growth.

Humidity & Misting

Coleus 'Pineapplette' prefers a humid environment, ideally between 40-70%. To maintain high humidity, use a pebble tray filled with water or a humidifier, especially during dry winter months.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Provide bright, indirect light and consistent moisture.

• Outdoor

  Partial shade or morning sun; protect from strong afternoon rays.

• Hardiness zone

  10-11 USDA

Life cycle

The life of Coleus 'Pineapplette' begins with seed germination, which occurs in warm, moist soil conditions typically within one to two weeks after sowing. After sprouting, the seedling stage follows, where the plant develops its first set of true leaves and begins to establish its root system. As it enters the vegetative growth stage, Coleus 'Pineapplette' exhibits rapid foliage growth, producing its characteristic colorful and patterned leaves. Upon reaching maturity, the plant may produce spikes of small flowers, although it is often grown for its attractive foliage rather than its blooms. If allowed to flower, it can set seed which can be collected for propagation, but many gardeners choose to pinch off flowers to encourage fuller leaf growth. Eventually, as an annual or tender perennial depending on the climate, Coleus 'Pineapplette' will complete its life cycle when it succumbs to frost or prolonged cold temperatures, unless it is brought indoors or propagated through cuttings for the next season.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Summer

• The most popular method of propagation for the Coleus 'Pineapplette' is through stem cuttings. Ideally, this is done during the warmer months of spring and summer when the plant is actively growing. To propagate, a healthy stem tip about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) long is cut just below a leaf node, where the concentration of rooting hormones is high. The lower leaves are removed, and the cutting is placed in water or a moist potting mix. It is important to keep the medium humid until roots develop, which typically takes about 1 to 2 weeks. Once rooted, the new plant can be potted up and will soon grow into a full-sized, attractive specimen.