Coleus (Plectranthus scutellarioides)

 

Not all plants achieve brilliant red color through their flowers. Coleus plants are available in many varieties with bright red foliage. Coleus is a tropical perennial usually grown as an annual in garden beds and containers. The red coleus' color works well with yellow flowers such as marigolds.

Traditionally a shade plant, there are now types of coleus that can be grown in the sun. It remains, however, a great plant for brighting shady spots of th e garden. While it does bloom, the flowers of coleus are insignificant and often are pinched off to promote more vigorous foliage.