COLEUS 'Palisandra'

Coleus 'Palisandra' is a gorgeous heirloom cultivar that was a favorite during the 'Coleus craze' of the late Victorian era. It's easy to see why! The soft, velvety, neatly serrated leaves of deepest burgundy-maroon look almost black and are quite possibly the purest and deepest colour in existence!

Cultivated for their highly variegated leaves, Coleus is a genus of flowering plants from the family Lamiaceae, and a native to tropical Africa, Asia and Australia.

Although commonly known as Coleus through the horticultural world, this name has in fact been superseded by the rather difficult to pronounce 'Solenostemon'. So expect the name Coleus to remain in use for some while yet! Another common name is 'painted nettle' which reflects the dead nettle family (Lamium) to which it belongs.

Originally selected as a houseplant, Giant Exhibition Palisandra is also a fine specimen for shady areas in the garden. This cultivar is one of a series of re-selected Victorian Coleus, by The Royal Botanic Gardens Kew.

You can sow at any time of the year on the surface of a good seed compost, but do not cover with compost. This is because Coleus cultivars require light for germination. Gently water and sealing in a polythene bag. Germination will take approximately 10-20 days at 20-30°C (70-85 F).

Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted into 3 inch pots, and eventually 6 inch pots. They are best grown in a bright position but out of direct sunlight. Remove the flower spikes as they will weaken the plant.

For related articles click onto the following links:
COLEUS 'Palisandra'
HOW TO GROW COLEUS FROM SEED
HOW TO TAKE CUTTINGS FROM COLEUS