How to Grow Burgundy Coleus Sedona

Burgundy Coleus Sedona

Plectranthus scutellarioides 'Sedona'

flower

Burgundy Coleus Sedona is an ornamental foliage plant prized for its dramatic deep burgundy to dark red leaves with contrasting color patterns. It grows as a tender perennial in tropical climates and annual in cooler regions, reaching 12-18 inches tall. This cultivar thrives in partial shade and is popular for containers, borders, and tropical-style gardens.

Growing Conditions

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Sun: Partial shade, 3-4 hours of indirect sunlight daily; tolerates shade but darkest color develops with some light

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Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water when top inch of soil is dry. More frequent watering in hot weather and for container plants.

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Spacing: 12 inches

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Days to maturity: 30-45 days to full ornamental size

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Planting depth: Surface sow or plant transplants at soil level; seeds need light to germinate

Soil

Type: Well-draining potting soil or fertile loamy soil

pH: 6.0-7.0

Amendments:

Compost Peat moss or coconut coir Perlite for drainage

Growing Zones

Find your zone →

Zones 10-11; grow as an annual in zones 3-9 or move indoors in winter

10a 10b 11a 11b

Growth Stages

Seedling

7-10 days

Tiny seedlings emerge with pale burgundy cotyledons and first true leaves showing color development

Provide bright, indirect light and maintain consistent moisture. Keep soil warm (70-75°F). Avoid direct sun which can scorch delicate seedlings.

Vegetative/Establishment

3-4 weeks

Plant develops multiple stems and leaves with deepening burgundy coloration and more defined leaf patterns

Pinch growing tips regularly to encourage bushiness. Provide partial shade. Begin fertilizing bi-weekly with balanced fertilizer.

Growth/Maturation

3-4 weeks

Plant fills out to full size with dense foliage displaying rich burgundy color and characteristic leaf texture

Continue pinching to maintain compact shape. Water consistently. Reduce nitrogen to avoid excessive vegetative growth at expense of color intensity.

Flowering

Ongoing if not pinched

Small blue, purple, or white flower spikes may emerge from leaf axils, though foliage is the main attraction

Pinch off flower buds to redirect energy to foliage development, which maintains the plant's ornamental appearance.

Maintenance

Until frost or year-round in zones 10-11

Established plant continues producing vibrant foliage throughout season with proper care

Prune as needed to maintain shape. Fertilize monthly. Watch for pests and disease in humid conditions.

Companion Planting

Plan your garden →

Plant with:

Caladiums Impatiens Begonias Ferns Hostas Sweet potato vine Dusty miller Tradescantia

Avoid planting near:

Mint varieties (can overshadow with aggressive growth) Dense evergreen shrubs (compete for shade)

Common Pests

Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; isolate infected plants; increase air circulation
Mist foliage regularly; spray with water to dislodge; use miticide if severe; improve humidity
Prune heavily infested stems; spray with horticultural oil; hand-remove if few; apply neem oil
Use yellow sticky traps; spray with insecticidal soap; ensure good air circulation; remove infested leaves
Allow soil surface to dry between waterings; use sand layer on soil surface; use insecticidal soap

Uses

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Ornamental garnish

Culinary

While the Sedona variety is not typically eaten, coleus leaves are used as edible garnishes in some cuisines. Some coleus varieties are grown specifically for culinary purposes, adding visual appeal to dishes. [source]

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Interior decoration and houseplants

Household

Burgundy Coleus Sedona is excellent as a potted houseplant for bright, indirect indoor locations. The deep burgundy color adds warmth and visual interest to living spaces, offices, and conservatories. [source]

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Floral arrangements and flower crafts

Craft

The striking burgundy leaves are used in fresh and dried flower arrangements, wreaths, and botanical crafts. The colorful foliage adds texture and drama to mixed arrangements. [source]

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Pollinator support

Wildlife

Small flowers attract bees and other pollinators when allowed to bloom. The plant provides nectar for beneficial insects in gardens. [source]

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Traditional herbal use

Medicinal

Some coleus species have been used in traditional medicine, though the ornamental Sedona variety is not typically used medicinally. Research suggests certain coleus compounds may have anti-inflammatory properties. [source]

This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.

Harvest Tips

Coleus is grown for ornamental foliage, not harvested in traditional sense. Pinch or prune stems regularly (every 2-3 weeks) to maintain compact, bushy shape and encourage dense, colorful foliage. Stem cuttings can be propagated in water for new plants. Remove flower spikes as they appear to direct energy to leaf production.

Fun Facts

🌱 Coleus is sometimes called the 'plant of a thousand colors' due to the incredible variety of foliage colors and patterns available across different cultivars.
🌱 Burgundy Coleus Sedona can be easily propagated from stem cuttings placed in water—roots develop within 1-2 weeks, making it an excellent choice for plant propagation projects.
🌱 Coleus belongs to the mint family (Lamiaceae) despite its lack of minty characteristics, which explains its vigorous growth habit and ability to root readily from cuttings.

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