How Do You Take Care Of Coleus Flamethrower?

FlameThrower is low-maintenance, warm-season plants that require little care. This series is resistant to pests and illnesses and may be cultivated year-round in south Louisiana’s environment. It behaves more like an annual in colder locations and may die back after prolonged freezes or cold weather.

While the majority of coleus is planted for their leaves, they do have an unassuming spike of little blue flowers that attract butterflies in late summer to early fall. Consider the following aspects when providing care:

Sunlight

FlameThrower is best grown in full sun. This plant performs best with at least three hours of direct sunlight. For maximum foliage production, this plant will grow to a height of 18 inches and should be pruned regularly to control its size and keep it compact in the landscape.

Soil

FlameThrower is tolerant of most soil types within the zones you are cultivating, though it performs better in rich, well-drained soil with a slightly acidic pH of 6.0 to 6.8.

Water

FlameThrower is relatively drought tolerant. It should be watered thoroughly when the soil feels dry to the touch in the top few inches. Fertilize twice a month with slow-release general purpose fertilizer or a water soluble liquid plant food. For container gardens, use a light-weight mix with excellent drainage to keep it compact and healthy.

Temperature

FlameThrower performs best with temperatures between 60°F (15°C) and 85°F (30°C), though it can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. For optimal performance, keep the temperature at or above 68°F (20°C), though this is not necessary.

Humidity

FlameThrower does well in high humidity areas, but does not appreciate any excess water from condensation. At the proper level of humidity, it will look healthy and bloom well throughout the year.

Repotting

FlameThrower has a relatively shallow root system that can be easily damaged when repotting. It is recommended to repot every two years, which can be done in the early spring before the plant begins growing. Carefully remove it from its container, making sure to keep the soil intact and not to damage any of the roots.

Repot FlameThrower in a container with equal parts soil and potting mix, making sure that its entire root system is contained within the new container.

Propagation

FlameThrower is easy to propagate but requires close attention while growing. This can be done by cuttings that can be placed directly in the soil, or by rooting cuttings that can be placed in a pot filled with fresh potting mix, and then place it in a spot with plenty of sunlight. Do not allow the cutting to sit for more than two weeks before transplanting it outdoors, as this may cause it to root poorly.

Pruning

The seductive part of FlameThrower is its ability to be shaped and pruned into the perfect size and shape container. By pruning regularly, you can achieve a more natural look while making it easier to control the size without too much effort. Pinch off excess leaves and stems regularly to encourage new growth.

Pests and Diseases

Coleus FlameThrower is resistant to pests and diseases, and can be pruned as necessary. Use a good insecticide for spider mites, aphids and whiteflies when necessary.

If your coleus does become diseased, always consult with a professional before using any type of fungicide or organic insecticide on your plants in the landscape. This will help keep them healthy and prevent the spread of disease to other plants in the garden.

What is Coleus FlameThrower?

FlameThrower coleus are one-of-a-kind, colorful plants that grow erect and compact in either full sun or shade. The vibrant leaf hues make this assortment suitable for pots and landscaping beds. These plants offer long-lasting color to the environment, and their distinctively shaped leaves add texture.

Salsa Roja, Serrano, Habanero, Chili Pepper, Chipotle, Spiced Curry, and Salsa Verde are the seven spicy types designated by the creators. Each piece has vibrant color combinations and energizing designs in gold, green, chartreuse, and burgundy red. These can be added to pots, containers, or any sunny spot in the landscape.

The creator of this plant is the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry’s Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) staff. The names given to the coleus plants from this series come from its unique color combination and spicy flavor.

Is coleus FlameThrower a perennial?

Coleus FlameThrower behaves like an annual in colder climates. This plant is considered a warm-season annual, which means that it will grow vigorously during the warmer months. In moderate winters, the rhizomes may survive and produce a few new leaves in early spring.

However, if temperatures dip below 20-25°F (-7°C), the plant may die back completely. In warmer winter climates, Coleus FlameThrower will remain green throughout the winter and grow vigorously in early spring.

FlameThrower is a low-maintenance plant that requires little care. This series is resistant to pests and illnesses, and may be cultivated year-round in south Louisiana’s environment. It behaves more like an annual in colder locations, and may die back after prolonged freezes or cold winter weather.

What is coleus FlameThrower used for?

Coleus FlameThrower is an excellent landscape addition with its unique decorative look and easy care. It can be used in containers or beds, and can be planted in a sunny position to allow it to thrive.

Planting coleus FlameThrower outdoors during the summer months creates a stunning look that frames beautiful landscapes. Using the stems as an edging around the border of your garden will allow the plant to grow upwards while providing beauty when viewed from afar. You can also intertwine the stems or use them to create an attractive topiary.

FlameThrower is a great choice for brightening up your home’s interior. It can be used in a variety of ways to bring some flair to your rooms. You can use these as standalone plants, or mix them with other decor by interweaving them throughout spaces. The possibilities are endless, and you’ll get the same great look in all areas of your home.

How do you propagate FlameThrower coleus?

FlameThrower coleus is easy to care for, and this makes propagation a breeze. You can start with a new plant by planting a stem or leaf cutting in a container of fresh potting soil. These plants are easy to root, so you will see new growth appear within weeks.

You can also employ stem cuttings to grow an entirely new plant by placing them directly into the ground. The following are steps when;

Propagating by stem cutting

• Gently slice a cutting from a stem in mid spring or early summer.
• Plant the cutting immediately in soil with equal parts potting mix and shredded sphagnum moss.
• Keep watered, but don’t water so heavily that it causes the cuttings to rot.
• Water when the soil is dry to little dampness.

Propagating by leaf cutting

• Gently slice a leaf cutting from a mature leaf in mid spring or early summer.
• Make a clean cut and place the cutting into a good quality, high humidity potting media.
• Place the newly cut leaves on top of the soil to reduce stress and allow for new growth to form.
• Water when the soil is dry to little dampness.

How often do you water Coleus FlameThrower?

Plants are suggested to be watered once a week during the summertime. When temperatures reach 90°-95°F (32°-35°C), a few more times per week can be beneficial as it will help your plants stay healthy and grow.

But when the temperature drops below 45°F (7°C), your plants should just be watered every two to three weeks. This can help eliminate root rot from occurring, and reduce the risk of damage from cold weather or freezing temperatures.

Watering depends on the growing environment, weather, and how well the soil is draining. Remember to water until the water drains from the bottom of your container. As for watering frequency, provide enough water to moisten all of the soil until water drips from the bottom of your planter or pot. This should be done weekly during hot summer months.

Is Coleus FlameThrower a succulent?

No, coleus is not a succulent. Coleus is part of the family Solanaceae or the nightshade family, which also includes tomato plants and peppers. Succulents are part of the family Crassulaceae or the stonecrop family including sedums and jovium.

Coleuses are often confused with succulents simply because both groups have similar water needs and drought tolerance. Coleus FlameThrower and other varieties of Coleus make great additions to succulent gardens as they provide excellent texture and aesthetic appeal.

How does Coleus FlameThrower fit in a landscape?

Coleus FlameThrower can be used in a variety of ways both indoors and outdoors. This plant looks stunning when planted in containers, planters, outdoor spaces, flower beds, landscape beds, side walkways and much more.

When planting coleus FlameThrower outdoors during the summer months creates a stunning look that frames beautiful landscapes. Using the stems as an edging around the border of your garden will allow the plant to grow upwards while providing beauty when viewed from afar. You can also intertwine the stems or use them to create an attractive topiary.

FlameThrower coleus is perfect for home and office decor, and can be used in a variety of ways to brighten up your rooms. You can use these as standalone plants, or mix them with other decor by interweaving them throughout spaces.

Is Coleus FlameThrower an indoor plant?

Yes, coleus plants are perfect for indoor growing as well. It’s especially important when growing coleus indoors that you make sure to water them enough and keep adequate sunlight so they can flourish.

Coleus FlameThrower is perfect for adding vibrant colors to your home or office decor and because it’s a fast-growing plant you can enjoy it for the many years to come without having to worry about replacing it.

If your plant has a pale green hue, it is not receiving enough light. Don’t despair! When coleus are moved from outdoors to indoors the normal green and purple tones in their leaves disappear temporarily. The color should return in about a week and the leaf will acclimate to its indoor environment.

How much light does Coleus FlameThrower need?

Coleus FlameThrower requires a minimum of 6 hours of light a day. They are the perfect plant for hanging baskets, window gardens and similar applications as they don’t need much maintenance. Keep plants in low-light areas like under a potted houseplant or drape them over a patio table and let them rest with natural light filtering through the leaves.

If you live in an area where sunlight is hard to come by, it’s best to use artificial lighting instead so that your Coleus doesn’t burn easily. Keeping your plant in low light or artificial light can lead to stunted growth, pale leaves, and leaf burn.