Flamethrower Coleus
Solenostemon scutellariodes Flamethrower
Flamethrower
About this plant
Solenostemon scutellariodes 'Flamethrower' is a vibrant ornamental plant known for its striking foliage with fiery red and orange colors edged in green. It is popular as a decorative houseplant or in shaded garden beds. The plant adds bright color and texture to indoor spaces or shaded outdoor areas.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Solenostemon
- Family
- Lamiaceae
- Higher classification
- Order: Lamiales
- Plant type
- Houseplant
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Tropical Asia
- Distribution
- Widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and homes worldwide, especially in tropical and subtropical regions.
Care
- Light preference
- Partial shade
- Suitable locations
- Indoor, Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 3–7 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- 10 °C
- Maximum
- 30 °C
- Optimal
- 18-24 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 10-11
- Soil pH
- 6.0-7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Soil type
- well-draining potting soil mix
Watering. Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water to prevent root rot.
Fertilizing. Feed with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4 to 6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce feeding in fall and winter when growth slows.
This plant is fairly easy to care for and thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate some shade. It prefers consistently moist soil but does not like to sit in water. Watch for leaf color fading if light is too low or leaves wilting if underwatered.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Cuttings
- Care difficulty
- Easy
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- summer
Brightly colored, variegated foliage with red, orange, and green hues; small tubular flowers in summer.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Non-toxic to humans and pets, making it safe for homes with children and animals.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Sap or latex, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- None
Solenostemon scutellariodes 'Flamethrower' may cause mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals due to its sap. It is not known to produce airborne pollen that triggers allergies. To reduce exposure, avoid direct contact with the sap and wash hands after handling the plant.
Common problems
Common problems include leaf color fading due to insufficient light, wilting from underwatering, and root rot if overwatered. Occasionally, pests like aphids or spider mites may appear.
Uses
Primarily grown for its colorful foliage as an ornamental houseplant or garden accent in shaded areas.
Notes
Prune regularly to maintain bushy growth and vibrant foliage. Repot every 1-2 years to refresh soil and encourage healthy roots. Sensitive to cold temperatures; keep above 10°C (50°F).