A wonderfully unique Coleus. The delicately cut, fishbone-shaped maroon foliage is tipped with vibrant lime outlines. Can be grown as an annual plant outside in summer then bought indoors as a houseplant. Height and Spread 30-35cm. Sun, part shade, well-drained soil.
Coleus ‘Skeletal’ is an eye-catching and vibrant annual plant known for its bold, striking foliage with unique, dark veins and contrasting colours. This variety adds a touch of elegance and flair to any garden, patio, or indoor space. By following this detailed planting and care guide, you can ensure your plant thrives beautifully throughout the growing season.
PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE
Best Planting Time
Spring: The ideal time to plant Coleus ‘Skeletal’ is during the spring when the soil has warmed up. This allows the plant to establish strong roots before it enters the peak growing season. Spring planting ensures a flourishing display of foliage and vibrant colours as the weather warms.
Early Summer: If you missed planting in spring, you can also plant your Coleus ‘Skeletal’ in early summer. This will give the plant time to grow and establish itself, although it’s important to keep an eye on water requirements during warmer months.
Site Selection
Sunlight: Coleus ‘Skeletal’ thrives best in partial to full shade, making it an excellent choice for areas with limited direct sunlight. While it can tolerate some sunlight, too much direct sun can cause the vibrant foliage to fade, so choose a location with indirect light or morning sun and afternoon shade for optimal results.
Soil: Well-drained, moist soil is essential for Coleus ‘Skeletal’. This plant prefers rich, loamy soil that retains moisture without becoming soggy. It’s a good idea to mix in organic compost to improve soil quality, as Coleus ‘Skeletal’ appreciates a nutrient-rich environment.
Planting Instructions
Prepare the Hole: Start by digging a hole about twice the size of the root ball of your Coleus ‘Skeletal’. This gives the roots plenty of room to spread and grow.
Soil Preparation: Mix in a generous amount of organic compost or well-rotted manure into the soil to improve fertility. This ensures that your Coleus ‘Skeletal’ gets the nutrients it needs to grow strong and vibrant.
Planting: Place the Coleus ‘Skeletal’ into the hole, ensuring that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Fill in the hole with soil, gently firming it around the plant to remove any air pockets.
Watering After Planting: Water your Coleus ‘Skeletal’ thoroughly after planting. This helps settle the soil around the roots and encourages them to establish themselves quickly.
Watering Requirements
Growing Season: Coleus ‘Skeletal’ prefers consistently moist soil but does not like to sit in water. Water your plant regularly, especially during dry periods. Allow the top of the soil to dry out slightly between waterings, but avoid letting it completely dry out.
Dormant Season: During cooler months, when Coleus ‘Skeletal’ may slow down or die back (as it is an annual), reduce watering significantly. Only water if the soil becomes extremely dry.
Feeding
Spring: To kickstart growth in the spring, apply a balanced, water-soluble fertiliser to Coleus ‘Skeletal’. This will provide the essential nutrients to support healthy growth and vivid foliage.
Mid-Summer: A light feeding once a month during the growing season can promote continuous growth and help maintain the vibrant colour in your plant. Avoid over-fertilising, as this can lead to leggy growth and less colourful leaves.
Pruning
Pinching Back: Regularly pinch back the tips of your Coleus ‘Skeletal’ to encourage bushier growth and prevent it from becoming leggy. This will also help maintain the compact shape of the plant and promote more vibrant foliage.
Deadheading: While your Coleus ‘Skeletal’ is primarily grown for its foliage, you can remove any spent flower spikes to keep the plant looking tidy. This also prevents the plant from diverting energy into flowering, which can reduce its overall visual impact.
Mulching Around the Plant
Spring Mulching: A layer of mulch around the base of your Coleus ‘Skeletal’ helps retain soil moisture and suppresses weed growth. Use organic mulch such as bark chips or shredded leaves for the best results.
Winter Care: If your Coleus ‘Skeletal’ is growing in a pot, you can bring it indoors during the colder months. For outdoor plantings, consider treating it as an annual, as it is unlikely to survive frost. If you want to overwinter it, consider taking cuttings and propagating them inside.
Supporting the Plant
Staking: Generally, Coleus ‘Skeletal’ does not require staking, as it has a compact growth habit. However, if grown in containers or in particularly windy areas, a small stake can help prevent the plant from tipping over.
Final Tips for Growing
Coleus ‘Skeletal’ is a low-maintenance plant that can brighten up any garden, container, or indoor space. By planting it in a shaded location with moist, well-drained soil, and by following a simple care routine, you can enjoy its striking foliage all season long. Make sure to regularly water, feed, and pinch back your Coleus ‘Skeletal’ to encourage a bushy, vibrant display. Whether planted in the ground or a container, this stunning plant is sure to impress with its unique and eye-catching appearance.
Incorporate Coleus ‘Skeletal’ into your garden for an easy-care, bold pop of colour that will add texture and interest to your outdoor spaces throughout the growing season!
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