Glowing Inferno coleus: Flower with wow power
There is an inferno of color this spring coming from a coleus that has a lot going for it. The Inferno coleus is relatively new, but already it has heads turning especially when you consider that in the University of Georgia, University of Tennessee, and Michigan State trials it was total perfection.
It was tops at Missouri Botanical Garden Trials and has truly been recognized across the country. If there was ever an orange coleus with the WOW factor you have been looking for it has to be Inferno. Those were trials mostly in sun but in Mississippi State University shade trials it averages 4.70 which means this versatile coleus will give you the bang for your gardening dollar no matter where you grow it.
This is a fairly large coleus that will push close to 3-feet in height and 2-feet plus in width. You’ll find it striking in the landscape or those designer mixed containers. Whether you grow it with flowers or other foliage as simple as the lime green Wasabi coleus the look will be attention grabbing.
Inferno certainly has an appropriate name as it takes on the hues of glowing lava. It is truly the most vibrant orange coleus in the market and the large crinkled or waffled-leaves add a texture that certainly gets attention.
If you have tight heavy clay soil, then you will want to work on improving your soil’s condition. To accomplish this, spread 2 to 4 inches of organic matter and about 2 pounds of fertilizer per 100 square feet. My favorite fertilizer for coleus is a 12-6-6. Till this in and you’ll be ready to plant. This pre-plant fertilizer followed by light monthly applications will keep the plants growing well until frost.
Gold-leafed durantas like Cuban Gold, Gold Mound or the taller Gold Edge with green variegation will make a stunning partner. But don’t forget you can never go wrong planting another coleus as a companion such as the lime green of Wasabi. By all means, don’t forget the possibility of combining with chartreuse colored ornamental sweet potatoes.
When it comes to Inferno coleus don’t forget the color blue. All shades of blue seem to create an artistic masterpiece. Whether you want to choose your favorite blue salvia, angelonia or verbena the look will be mesmerizing.
Planting coleus like Inferno with your favorite flowers or in some combination with other foliage will give you a bed that performs until cool weather arrives in fall.
