Purple coleus, also known as Plectranthus scutellarioides, is a popular plant known for its vibrant foliage and ornamental appeal. When it comes to determining whether purple coleus is an annual or perennial, it can be a bit complex as it depends on various factors such as climate, growing conditions, and specific cultivars.
In general, purple coleus is considered a tender perennial, meaning it can survive and regrow in the following year under certain conditions. However, it is most commonly grown as an annual in many regions due to its sensitivity to cooler temperatures.
Purple coleus is typically hardy in USDA zones 10-11, where the climate is warm and mild throughout the year. In these regions, purple coleus plants can often survive the winter and come back in the following year. This is particularly true if they are provided with proper care and protection from frost or extreme cold.
In colder regions with frosty winters and temperatures below freezing, purple coleus is unlikely to survive as a perennial. In such areas, it is best to treat purple coleus as an annual and replant it each year. However, you can always try overwintering the plant indoors if you wish to keep it for the next season.
To overwinter purple coleus, you can take cuttings from the existing plant before the first frost and root them in water or a well-draining potting mix. Place the cuttings in a warm and bright location, ensuring they receive adequate moisture. Once the threat of frost has passed, you can transplant the rooted cuttings back into the garden or containers.
Another option to keep purple coleus throughout the winter is by bringing the entire plant indoors. Before the first frost, carefully dig up the plant, ensuring you do not damage the roots. Transplant it into a suitable container with well-draining soil and place it in a sunny location indoors. Provide regular watering and monitor for any pests or diseases that may affect the plant during its indoor stay.
It’s worth noting that even in the warmest regions, purple coleus may still become leggy or lose some of its vibrant color as it ages. To maintain a healthy and attractive plant, regular pruning and pinching back of the foliage is recommended. This will encourage bushier growth and help maintain the plant’s overall shape and appearance.
While purple coleus is considered a tender perennial, it is most commonly grown as an annual due to its sensitivity to colder temperatures. In USDA zones 10-11, where the climate is warm and mild, purple coleus has a higher chance of coming back the following year. However, in colder regions, it is best treated as an annual or brought indoors for overwintering. By providing proper care and protection, you can enjoy the vibrant foliage of purple coleus year after year, regardless of its classification as an annual or perennial.
