Coleus scutellarioides

When growing coleus plants for their lovely foliage in containers and garden beds, you may be wondering if they come back each year or you'll need to replace them after the winter.

So is coleus a perennial?

Coleus scientific name

Coleus uses

Coleus scientific name and family

How long do coleus plants live for?

Is coleus toxic to humans

Technically, coleus plants can live for more than one year, but most gardeners grow them as annuals that die once freezing temperatures arrive. Growing a coleus as a perennial is easy, should you wish to keep a favorite variety around.

Here's what you need to know to enjoy coleus as a perennial or annual plant.

What Are Coleus Plants?

Coleus is a genus of stunning foliage plants in the mint family.

Coleus common name

While coleus plants were initially grown as shade plants, breeders have been working to make them more versatile. Many new varieties developed over the past few years are content to grow in full sunshine, even in hot climates. 

Coleus varieties range in size from short 8-inch plants to 3-foot-tall giants bursting with colorful leaves.

While they do flower, coleus plants are primarily grown for th

is coleus a perennial

is coleus an annual or perennial