Overview
Coleus neochilus (Schltr.) Codd, also known as blue coleus or blue plectranthus, is a species of flowering plant in the Lamiaceae family. It is a perennial herb that is native to South Africa and Zimbabwe. The plant has several medicinal properties and is used in various traditional remedies in these regions.
Appearance
The plant has a compact and bushy growth habit, growing up to 60 cm tall. The leaves are ovate, smooth, and densely covered in fine hairs that give them a blue-gray coloration. The stems are also slightly hairy and become woody with age. The small, blue-purple flowers are produced on spikes that emerge from the leaf axils of the upper stem in late summer and autumn.
Common names
The plant is commonly known as blue coleus, blue spurflower, blue plectranthus, and blue Swedish ivy.
Uses
The leaves of Coleus neochilus are used in traditional African medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including headaches, stomach pains, and fever. The plant is also used as a natural insect repellent and in the production of perfumes and essential oils. In addition, the plant is commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens, due to its attractive blue-gray foliage and small, colorful flowers.
Light Requirements
The Coleus neochilus plant requires moderate to bright sunlight to grow well. The ideal light range is about 2000-3500 foot candles. However, it's important to keep the plant away from direct sunlight. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves. It's recommended to place the plant in a location where it can receive plenty of bright, indirect light.
Temperature Requirements
The Coleus neochilus plant prefers warm temperatures between 60°F-80°F. Anything below 60°F can affect the plant's growth, and temperatures above 80°F can cause stress on the plant. It's important to keep the plant in a warm location, away from drafts and cool breezes. Also, ensure that the temperature remains consistent throughout the day and night.
Soil Requirements
The Coleus neochilus plant requires good-quality, well-drained soil. It's recommended to use a mixture of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite. The soil should have a pH level between 6.0-7.0. The plant doesn't do well in waterlogged soil, as it can lead to root rot. Ensure that the soil is moist but not overly wet. Adding a layer of mulch can help keep the soil moist and also discourage weed growth.
Cultivation methods
Coleus neochilus is native to tropical Africa and requires warm temperatures to thrive. It can be grown outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 10 and 11 or as a houseplant in cooler climates. Plant the coleus in well-draining soil, rich in organic matter. It prefers soils that are slightly acidic to neutral, with a pH range of 5.5-7.0.
When growing coleus neochilus in a container, make sure the pot is large enough to accommodate its root system. A potting mix of 2 parts peat moss, 1 part sterile loam, and 1 part perlite or vermiculite is ideal. The plant requires at least 6 hours of bright, indirect sunlight daily.
Watering needs
Coleus neochilus requires regular watering, especially during the hot and dry season. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so make sure the soil drains well. Avoid getting water on the plant's leaves, as this can cause fungal diseases.
Fertilization
For optimal growth and health, fertilize coleus neochilus with a balanced fertilizer every 4 to 6 weeks. The fertilizer should be high in nitrogen to promote vegetative growth. Use a well-balanced, time-release fertilizer or a water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. Avoid fertilizing during the plant's dormant season.
Pruning
To keep the plant bushy and attractive, pinch back the growing tips regularly. This will encourage the coleus neochilus to produce more lateral branches, resulting in a fuller plant. You can also prune back leggy or overgrown stems to keep the plant at the desired size. Use clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors to avoid damaging the plant.
Propagation of Coleus neochilus
Coleus neochilus (Schltr.) Codd is a perennial herb that belongs to the family of Lamiaceae. It is commonly known as Blue Plectranthus or Lobster Flower. The plant is native to South Africa and is known for its vibrant blue flowers and strong scent. It is an easy plant to propagate through different methods.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is the easiest and quickest way to propagate Coleus neochilus. Select a healthy stem and cut it at an angle of 45 degrees, making a clean cut just below a leaf node. Remove the lower leaves, leaving only a few nodes at the top. Then, dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and place them in a pot filled with well-draining soil. Water the soil and cover the pot with a plastic bag to retain moisture. Coleus neochilus cuttings take about two to three weeks to develop roots.
Propagation by Seed
Coleus neochilus can also be propagated by seed. Collect seeds from mature plants and plant them in a seed-starting tray filled with a well-draining soil mix. Water the soil and cover the tray with a plastic wrap to retain moisture. Place the seedlings in a bright location but not in direct sunlight. It takes about 7-21 days for the seeds to germinate. Once the Coleus neochilus seeds have sprouted, they can be transplanted into individual pots filled with potting soil.
Propagation by Division
Propagating Coleus neochilus by division is an effective way to make new plants. Locate the parent plant's clump and carefully dig up the entire root ball. Gently divide the root ball into smaller sections, making sure each section has roots and shoots. Plant each section in an individual pot filled with a well-draining soil mix and water the soil. Keep the pots in a bright location but not in direct sunlight. Water the plants regularly and wait for them to grow.
Propagation of Coleus neochilus is easy and can be done through cuttings, seed, and division. Ensure that you use well-draining soil, provide adequate water, and give the new plants sufficient light.
Disease and Pest Management for Coleus neochilus (Schltr.) Codd
Coleus neochilus, commonly known as the flaming nettle, is an easy-to-grow plant that is largely unaffected by disease and pests. However, when faced with adverse environmental conditions, the plant can be susceptible to a few issues that can lead to stunted growth and even death. Below are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and suggested ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
Coleus neochilus is mostly affected by fungal diseases such as root rot, leaf spot, and powdery mildew.
- Root rot: This disease occurs when the soil is too damp and the roots start to rot. To manage root rot, remove any infected plants immediately and avoid overwatering.
- Leaf spot: Leaf spot disease is characterized by brown, circular spots on the leaves. To manage this issue, remove any diseased leaves and avoid splashing water onto the leaves.
- Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew appears as white powdery spots on the leaves, which can cause the leaves to yellow and eventually fall off. To manage this, apply a fungicide to infected plants, avoid overcrowding, and ensure proper airflow.
Common Pests
While Coleus neochilus does not typically have pest problems, the following insects can occasionally afflict the plant:
- Aphids: These tiny insects suck the sap from the plant and can cause leaves to yellow and curl. To manage them, use insecticidal soap or spray with a strong jet of water to blast them off the plant.
- Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny arachnids that cause damage by sucking plant juices. They cause the plant to become discolored and can stunt growth. To manage them, use an insecticidal soap or spray with neem oil.
- Whiteflies: Whiteflies are tiny insects that suck the sap from the plant and cause the leaves to become sticky and honeydew-filled. To manage them, use yellow sticky traps or encourage the growth of natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings.
Keep in mind that preventing disease and pest infestation is key to a healthy and thriving Coleus neochilus plant. Avoid overcrowding and overwatering, maintain proper air circulation, and keep the plant in a spot that gets adequate sunlight.
