Coleus scutellarioides Second Street

The Coleus MS Second Street is part of the Main Street series, known for its visually striking varieties and robust growth. Recently renamed Plectranthus, the Coleus is a popular houseplant prized for its textured and colourful foliage. The Second Street develops dentate and velvety leaves in a very dark, purplish, almost black hue. Vigorous in nature, it boasts an upright, bushy habit with a neat appearance.

The Coleus has an abundance of botanical synonyms: Coleus blumei, Plectranthus scutellarioides, Coleus hybridus, Coleus blumei var. verschaffeltii, Solenostemon scutellarioides, Coleus saundersiae, Ocimum scutellarioides, Coleus verschaffeltii, Coleus pumilus. Its common names include Painted Nettle, Flame Nettle, and Poor Man’s Croton. The Coleus belongs to the Lamiaceae family. This genus comprises around 60 species of tender perennial shrubs native to tropical Asia and Africa. Horticulture has given rise to numerous hybrids and cultivars, many of which are descendants of the Solenostemon scutellarioides.

The Coleus MS Second Street forms an upright, dense, and rounded clump, reaching approximately 40 cm in all directions. Its sturdy, ramified stems bear medium-sized leaves edged with fine serrations. The slightly villous lamina varies in colour. It may occasionally produce discreet flowers, but it is primarily cultivated for its foliage. It is often recommended to remove these flowers to prevent the plant from exhausting itself.

Indoors, the Plectranthus prefers bright, indirect light. It can tolerate lower light levels, but this may dull the vibrancy of its colours. Moderate to high ambient humidity is ideal, with temperatures between 18 and 24°C. It is essential to protect the plant from draughts and temperatures below 15°C. Regular but moderate watering is recommended, allowing the compost to dry out slightly between waterings.

The Coleus range, sometimes nicknamed 'painted nettles' due to their incredibly diverse foliage, are indispensable for adding a striking exotic touch to any setting. The 'Second Street' is captivating with its velvety, deeply dark, theatrical leaves. It stands out amidst a collection of more subdued foliage plants or on a stylish piece of furniture in a neutral pot. Its compact, bushy habit also makes it an attractive choice for consoles or coffee tables. If necessary, place a humidifier nearby or mist its leaves regularly. Pair it with plants like Alocasias or Philodendrons, which thrive under similar conditions.