Under the Sea Coleus: A Beautiful and Easy-to-Grow Plant

If you're looking for an eye-catching plant that's easy to grow, look no further than Under the Sea Coleus. With its vibrant colors and unique foliage, this plant is sure to add a pop of color to any garden or indoor space. In this article, we'll take a closer look at what makes Under the Sea Coleus so special and how you can grow it yourself.

What is Under the Sea Coleus?

Under the Sea Coleus, also known as Solenostemon 'Under the Sea', is a variety of coleus that was developed by plant breeder Rick Schoellhorn. This plant is prized for its striking foliage, which features shades of green, purple, pink, and burgundy. The leaves are also textured, with some varieties featuring ruffled edges or pointed tips.

Purple Under the Sea Coleus leaves

How to Grow Under the Sea Coleus

One of the best things about Under the Sea Coleus is that it's very easy to grow. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Choose the Right Location

Under the Sea Coleus thrives in partial shade, so choose a location that gets a few hours of morning or afternoon sun but is shaded during the hottest part of the day. If you're growing this plant indoors, place it near a window that gets bright but indirect light.

Use Well-Draining Soil

Like many plants, Under the Sea Coleus prefers soil that drains well. Choose a high-quality potting mix or amend your garden soil with compost or perlite to improve drainage.

Water Regularly

Under the Sea Coleus likes to be kept consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Water this plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, and make sure to water deeply enough so that the water reaches the roots.

Pink Under the Sea Coleus leaves

Fertilize Occasionally

To keep your Under the Sea Coleus healthy and thriving, fertilize it occasionally with a balanced fertilizer. You can use a slow-release granular fertilizer or a water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength.

Benefits of Growing Under the Sea Coleus

In addition to being a beautiful and easy-to-grow plant, Under the Sea Coleus offers several benefits to gardeners:

Attracts Pollinators

The flowers of Under the Sea Coleus attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, making this plant a great choice for pollinator gardens.

Purifies the Air

Like many plants, Under the Sea Coleus helps purify the air by removing toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene. This makes it a great choice for indoor spaces like offices and bedrooms.

Green Under the Sea Coleus leaves

Caring for Under the Sea Coleus

To keep your Under the Sea Coleus looking its best, here are some additional care tips:

Pinch Back Regularly

To encourage bushier growth and prevent your plant from becoming leggy, pinch back the tips of your Under the Sea Coleus regularly. This will also help promote more vibrant foliage.

Watch for Pests

Under the Sea Coleus is relatively pest-resistant, but it may attract whiteflies, spider mites, or mealybugs. If you notice any of these pests, treat your plant with an insecticidal soap or neem oil spray.

Overwinter Indoors

Under the Sea Coleus is typically grown as an annual, but if you live in a warmer climate, you may be able to overwinter your plant indoors. Simply cut it back by about one-third and keep it in a bright spot with moderate humidity.

Under the Sea Coleus is a showstopping plant that's easy to grow and offers numerous benefits to gardeners. Whether you're looking to add some color to your garden or purify the air in your home, this plant is a great choice. Give it a try and see for yourself!