Black Dragon Coleus - Care Sheet
Overview
Black Dragon Coleus (Plectranthus scutellarioides 'Black Dragon') is a striking annual with deep burgundy-black leaves edged in vivid green, creating a dramatic dragon-like pattern. This compact plant grows 12-14 inches tall and wide, perfect for shady garden beds, containers, or as a colorful houseplant. It delivers bold foliage color with minimal fuss, thriving in warm conditions and rewarding beginners with bushy growth when pinched regularly. Ideal for adding contrast in mixed plantings alongside impatiens or begonias.
Quick Facts
| Scientific name | Plectranthus scutellarioides 'Black Dragon' |
|---|---|
| Common name | Black Dragon Coleus |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Pet-safe? | Unknown – Consult a vet if ingested |
| Light | 4-6 hours indirect light or partial shade; <3 ft from window indoors |
| Water | Evenly moist; water when top 1-2" dry |
| Humidity | 50%+; mist or use tray if dry |
| Temperature | 16-29°C / 60-85°F; no frost |
| Soil | Well-draining, organic-rich potting mix; pH 6.0-7.0 |
| Fertilizer | Balanced liquid every 4-6 weeks spring-fall |
| Repotting | Yearly or when doubled in size |
| Propagation | Stem cuttings in soil/perlite; seeds |
Light
Give your Black Dragon Coleus 4-6 hours of indirect sunlight daily for the most vibrant foliage colors. Outdoors, plant in partial shade with morning sun and afternoon protection to avoid leaf scorch. Indoors, position less than 3 feet from a south-facing window or use grow lights. Too much direct sun causes wilting and fading, while insufficient light leads to leggy growth and dull leaves. Adjust based on your space—newer varieties tolerate more sun, but shade keeps colors popping.
Water
Keep soil evenly moist but never soggy—water when the top 1-2 inches feel dry to the touch. For a 5-inch pot without direct sun, about 0.5 cups every 9 days works as a starting point; scale up for larger pots or hotter weather. Water at the base to keep foliage dry and prevent fungal issues. In heat or dry spells, check daily. Let it wilt slightly between waterings only if needed, but consistent moisture promotes lush growth without stress.
Humidity
This tropical beauty loves 50% or higher humidity to mimic its native habitat. Indoors, group with other plants, use a pebble tray with water, or mist leaves regularly. Dry air causes crispy edges, so a humidifier helps in winter. Outdoors in humid summers, it thrives naturally; just ensure good airflow to avoid mildew.
Temperature
Maintain steady warmth between 16-29°C (60-85°F), with a minimum of 13°C (55°F)—protect from frost at all costs. Ideal for summer gardens or bright indoor spots. Avoid drafts, sudden drops, or hot spots above 29°C, which stress the plant and fade colors. Bring containers inside before cool nights.
Soil & Potting
Use well-draining, organic-rich potting mix amended with perlite or sand for pots; enrich garden soil with compost. Aim for pH 6.0-7.0—test and adjust with lime (to raise) or sulfur (to lower) if needed. Pots need drainage holes and at least 6-8 inches depth. Space garden plants 10-18 inches apart for airflow. Poor drainage invites root rot, so quality mix is non-negotiable for healthy roots.
Feeding
Apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer at half-strength every 4-6 weeks during spring to early fall. Start after planting with slow-release granules, then supplement monthly. Skip or quarter-strength in winter dormancy. Overfeeding burns leaves, so watch growth—bushy plants may need more. This fuels vibrant foliage without legginess.
Repotting
Repot annually in spring or when the plant doubles in size and roots fill the pot. Choose a slightly larger container with fresh, well-draining mix. Gently loosen roots, plant at the same depth, and water well. This refreshes nutrients and prevents crowding. For houseplants, upsizing keeps them compact and colorful year-round.
Propagation
Easily root 4-6 inch stem cuttings in a 50/50 potting mix-perlite blend—keep moist at 21-24°C (70-75°F) under bright indirect light. Roots form in 1-2 weeks; pinch tips for bushiness. Sow seeds shallow (don't cover) on moist soil at 21-24°C, germinating in 10-14 days with light. Spring is prime time; cuttings are fastest for clones of that dramatic Black Dragon look.
Common Problems
Leggy Growth
Caused by low light—move closer to a window or add grow lights. Pinch tips regularly to encourage bushy form.
Yellowing or Drooping Leaves
Often overwatering or root rot—let soil dry slightly and improve drainage. Underwatering wilts edges; check top soil.
Pests like Aphids or Spider Mites
Inspect undersides; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap weekly. Increase humidity and airflow to deter.
Scorched or Faded Leaves
Too much direct sun—shift to shade. Trim damaged parts and maintain even moisture.
Leaf Drop
Sudden changes in light, temp, or water—stabilize conditions and prune to revive.
Toxicity & Pet Safety
Toxicity data is unknown for Black Dragon Coleus—treat as potentially harmful. Keep away from curious pets and kids; if ingested, contact Poison Control (US: 800-222-1222) or a vet/ASPCA (888-426-4435). Err on caution with nibblers.
Seasonal Care
Spring: Plant after last frost; ramp up water, start feeding, prune for fullness.
Summer: Consistent moisture in heat; protect from intense sun, prune flowers to focus on leaves.
Fall: Cut back fertilizer, take cuttings, prep indoors.
Winter: Minimal water, no feed, high humidity, bright indirect light—overwinter as houseplant above 13°C (55°F).
Quick Tips
- Pinch growing tips weekly for bushier plants and more color.
- Remove flower spikes promptly—they sap energy from foliage.
- Group in containers for instant drama; mix with shade lovers.
- Check soil moisture with your finger before watering.
- Boost color with steady warmth and indirect light.
- Inspect weekly for pests—early catch keeps it thriving.
- Overwinter indoors for year-after-year enjoyment.