White Flower Farm Coleus

This variety is versatile and can handle full sun, but it performs best with some protection from the harsh afternoon heat. If you live in a region with extremely hot summers, planting it in partial shade will help keep the foliage colors vibrant and prevent the leaves from scorching.

Coleus Lava Rose prefers consistently moist soil. Check the top inch of soil regularly; if it feels dry to the touch, it is time to water. Avoid letting the plant dry out completely, as this can cause the leaves to wilt.

It works beautifully as both. Because of its vigorous, trailing habit, it makes an excellent spiller for hanging baskets and containers, but it also spreads nicely as a low-growing ground cover in garden beds.

While it is low-maintenance, pinching back the tips of the stems occasionally will encourage the plant to branch out and become fuller. This helps maintain a dense, bushy shape rather than allowing it to become leggy.

Coleus Lava Rose is grown as an annual in most climates. It is hardy in Zone 10, so unless you live in a frost-free area, you should expect to replant it each season.