Coleus Kong Rose - Care Sheet
Overview
Coleus 'Kong Rose' is a stunning shade-loving annual with enormous, dramatically ruffled leaves in bright green edged with deep rose-pink and burgundy centers. This mounded, upright variety from the Kong series brings bold color to shady garden beds, containers, or indoor spaces, growing 18-24 inches (46-61 cm) tall and wide. Perfect for beginners, it thrives with basic care and delivers eye-catching foliage all season long.
Quick Facts
| Scientific name | Coleus scutellarioides 'Kong Rose' |
|---|---|
| Common name | Coleus Kong Rose |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Pet-safe? | No |
| Light | Bright indirect or partial shade; <1 ft (30 cm) from east/south window |
| Water | Allow top inch (2.5 cm) to dry; every 7-9 days |
| Humidity | Medium; 40-60% no extra needed |
| Temperature | 18-29°C / 65-85°F; min 10°C / 50°F |
| Soil | Well-draining potting mix with perlite |
| Fertilizer | Repot yearly or dilute liquid every 2 weeks |
| Repotting | Annually or when doubled in size |
| Propagation | Stem cuttings in water or soil |
Light
Position your Coleus 'Kong Rose' less than 1 foot (30 cm) from a bright, indirect light source like an east- or south-facing window. It excels in partial shade outdoors and tolerates full shade, but avoid low light which causes leggy growth. In full sun, leaves may scorch, so provide afternoon protection. Indoors, supplement with grow lights during shorter days for vibrant color.
Water
Water when the top inch (2.5 cm) of soil feels dry, roughly every 7-9 days for a 5-inch (13 cm) pot without direct sun—about 0.5 cups (120 ml) per session. Keep soil evenly moist like a wrung-out sponge but never soggy to prevent root rot. In containers, check daily in heat; mulch outdoors to retain moisture. Wilting signals under- or overwatering—adjust accordingly.
Humidity
Average household humidity (40-60%) suits Coleus 'Kong Rose' perfectly—no misting or humidifiers required. It absorbs moisture through roots, so focus on consistent soil watering. In very dry air, group with other plants or use a pebble tray for gentle boost, but avoid excess to prevent leaf issues.
Temperature
Maintain daytime temperatures of 18-29°C (65-85°F) and nights above 10°C (50°F). Protect from drafts, AC vents, or sudden cold snaps. Ideal as a summer annual outdoors in USDA zones 10-11; bring indoors before frost. Heat-tolerant but wilts in extremes—consistent warmth promotes lush growth.
Soil & Potting
Use well-draining potting mix enriched with perlite, vermiculite, or coco coir for aeration. Neutral to slightly acidic pH works best. Plant in pots with drainage holes twice the root ball's width. Outdoors, amend garden soil for moisture retention without waterlogging. This setup prevents common rot issues and supports healthy roots.
Feeding
Fresh potting soil provides initial nutrients—rely on repotting for most needs. For faster growth, apply diluted balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks during spring-summer. Skip high-phosphorus formulas to avoid triggering flowers, which shorten the plant's life. Less is more; overfeeding fades leaf colors.
Repotting
Repot annually in spring or when the plant doubles in size into a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining mix. Gently tease out roots if circling. This refreshes nutrients and prevents stagnation. Handle carefully to avoid stem breakage on these bushy growers.
Propagation
Easily root 4-6 inch (10-15 cm) stem cuttings in water or moist soil—roots form in 1-2 weeks. Pinch below a node, remove lower leaves, and place in indirect light. Transplant once rooted. Spring is prime time; this quick method lets you multiply your Kong Rose for free plants or overwintering.
Common Problems
Yellow Leaves
Often from overwatering or root rot—let soil dry out, replace soggy mix, and water less. Underwatering or low light also culprits; check moisture and brighten location.
Leggy Growth
Insufficient light causes stretching—move closer to a window or add grow lights. Pinch tips to encourage bushiness.
Brown, Crispy Edges
Too-dry soil or low humidity—water consistently and group plants. Pests like spider mites may contribute; wipe leaves with soapy water.
Wilting
Balance water extremes—dry soil means underwatering; wet means rot. Ensure good drainage and stable temps.
Flower Spikes
Pinch off promptly to redirect energy to foliage, preventing plant decline.
Toxicity & Pet Safety
Not pet-safe—coleus is toxic to cats, dogs, and children if ingested, causing vomiting or dermatitis. Keep out of reach; contact poison control or a vet if exposure occurs. Best for pet-free homes or elevated displays.
Seasonal Care
Spring-summer: Maximize light and water for growth; fertilize lightly. Fall: Take cuttings before frost for overwintering indoors under grow lights. Winter: Reduce water, provide bright indirect light, and maintain warmth. In zones 10-11, it may perennialize outdoors. Restart from seed or cuttings yearly for reliability.
Quick Tips
- Pinch growing tips early for a fuller, bushier plant.
- Remove flower spikes to keep foliage vibrant longer.
- Rotate weekly for even growth and color.
- Mulch outdoor beds to steady soil moisture.
- Inspect undersides for pests monthly.
- Pair with impatiens or ferns in shade containers.
- Overwinter cuttings for next year's free plants.