6 Creative Ways to Use Coleus in Containers for Long-Lasting Color

Visual Bridge

Two-toned leaves are one of coleus's superpowers: They not only look gorgeous on their own, but they can also help tie mixed planters together. In this pot, the lime green and deep purple 'Inky Fingers' coleus creates a bridge between the gold and green tones of the canna and sedge with the burgundy of the oxalis. 'Inky Fingers' does best in part sun to shade.

Intriguing Shapes

This large container may be packed full of foliage plants, but it's the dark coleus standing tall at left that really invites a closer look. Part of the 'Under the Sea' collection, this coleus variety features deeply lobed leaves that resemble coral—and brings extra texture and dimension to containers. Coleus from this series like part sun to full shade.

Electric-Bright Accent

In a densely planted container, contrast is vital to helping each plant stand out. Count on the lime green varieties of coleus to break up dark green foliage and brighten any scene. In this window box, the chartreuse leaves of 'Wasabi' coleus not only add a visual zing befitting the plant's namesake, but have serrated edges for textural variety. 'Wasabi' coleus can take both sun and shade.

Grounding Force

The electric-bright coleus cultivars may get a lot of attention from gardeners, but don't underestimate the warmer-toned coleus varieties. The coleus from the 'ColorBlaze' series, standing at left, has a rich bronze tone that grounds a container design and makes a warm foil to the citrus green sweet potato vine.

Triple Threat

To celebrate coleus in all its diverse beauty, plant multiple varieties in one pot. Sticking to a cohesive palette, combine different forms to fill out the container on all levels. This red-and-gold container includes 'Red Carpet,' a coleus from the 'Under the Sea' series, and 'Blonde Bombshell.' It can work in both sun and shade.

Tropical Tangle

Coleus is a great plant to turn to if you want a lush jungle look in a container. It grows quickly over summer, especially in high humidity, and has an abundant look befitting the tropics. Here, the coleus plants have grown so vigorously alongside sweet potato vine and caladium, they hide the container they were planted in.

Summary: Coleus earns its place in container gardens by doing something every gardener appreciates: delivering nonstop color with very little fuss. While many annuals rely on flowers for a wow factor, coleus makes an impact with colorful, tropical-looking leaves that can look just as good in July as they do in September. And there are so many varieties of coleus, there's one for every pot, whether you're looking for a trailer or a focal point, a plant for shade or one that basks in full sun. Here are 6 container designs that show off the plant's many talents.