Coleus ‘Black Dragon’ (Solenostemon scutellarioides) is not your typical foliage plant. With its deep crimson to near-black leaves and rippling edges, this coleus variety adds dramatic texture and rich color to any garden or home interior. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner looking for something bold and low-maintenance, ‘Black Dragon’ is a stunning choice.
Characteristics at a Glance
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Type | Annual (Perennial in Zones 10–11) |
| Height | 12–14 inches |
| Spread | 10–12 inches |
| Light Needs | Part shade to full shade |
| Foliage Color | Deep red, purple, near-black |
| Bloom | Infrequent; flowers are insignificant |
| Watering | Moist, well-drained soil |
| Best Uses | Containers, borders, houseplant |
Light Requirements: Shade Is Its Friend
Coleus ‘Black Dragon’ thrives in partial to full shade, making it ideal for dim corners of the garden or north-facing windows indoors. While it can handle bright indirect light, too much direct sun can cause leaf scorching and wilting. On the flip side, too little light may lead to leggy growth.
✅ Tip: Indoors, place it near an east- or north-facing window.
Water & Soil Needs
This coleus prefers moist but well-drained soil. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while letting the soil dry out too much may cause leaf drop.
- Use loamy, rich soil.
- Keep soil evenly moist, especially during hot weather.
- Avoid letting water sit on leaves to reduce the risk of mildew.
Pruning & Maintenance Tips
Coleus ‘Black Dragon’ is easy to maintain, but it will look fuller and healthier with a few basic steps:
- Pinch back young tips to encourage bushier growth.
- Remove flower spikes as soon as they appear to keep energy focused on foliage.
- Rotate indoor pots weekly for even light exposure.
🌱 Bonus Tip: Regular pinching prevents legginess and keeps the plant compact and colorful.
Propagation: How to Grow More ‘Black Dragons’
You can propagate Coleus ‘Black Dragon’ from cuttings:
- Cut a healthy stem below a node.
- Remove lower leaves and place the stem in water.
- Roots should appear within 1–2 weeks.
- Transfer to soil and keep in bright, indirect light.
Garden and Design Uses
This coleus is a showstopper in mixed containers and shaded garden beds. Use it to:
- Create contrast with lime-green or silver-foliage plants.
- Add bold drama to indoor displays.
- Combine with Begonias, Caladiums, or Impatiens for color-rich shade gardens.
🪟 Indoors: Looks great in clay pots or woven baskets for a rustic vibe.
Pests and Problems
Coleus ‘Black Dragon’ is relatively trouble-free, but keep an eye out for:
- Aphids
- Whiteflies
- Spider mites
Especially in indoor settings.
Too much sun = wilting.
Too little light = leggy growth.
Regular inspection and occasional neem oil spray help keep pests in check.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Growing
| Feature | Indoors | Outdoors |
|---|---|---|
| Light | Bright, indirect | Partial to full shade |
| Watering | Once top inch is dry | Frequent during summer |
| Growth | Compact, 8–10 inches | Fuller, bushier in-ground growth |
| Potting | 6–8 inch pots | Plant 10–12 inches apart |
Is It Winter-Hardy?
Coleus is not frost tolerant. In zones 10–11, it may survive as a perennial outdoors, but in cooler climates it’s grown as an annual or brought indoors before first frost.
Fun Facts About ‘Black Dragon’
- The dark foliage helps retain color even in shade.
- Its ruffled, scalloped leaves give it a unique visual texture.
- Flowering is rare, but when it happens, blooms are small and usually removed to preserve foliage quality.
Conclusion: Why Coleus ‘Black Dragon’ Belongs in Your Garden
Whether you’re looking to add drama to a shade garden or need an easy-care houseplant, Coleus ‘Black Dragon’ delivers. Its bold color, low-maintenance nature, and design versatility make it a favorite among gardeners who love foliage as much as flowers.
So go ahead—make a statement in your garden or windowsill with this mysterious, moody beauty.
