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Photo by David J. Stang, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Growing Information
Growing Information
HEIGHT: 12 - 18 inches
SPREAD: 10 - 14 inches
LIGHT: Partial Shade to Full Shade (tolerates morning sun)
WATER: Moderate; prefers evenly moist, well-drained soil
IN BLOOM: Colorful foliage from spring until frost
HARDINESS: Zones 2-11
TYPE: Annual
Coleus scutellarioides 'Black Dragon'
Coleus scutellarioides 'Black Dragon'
Black Dragon Coleus is a dramatic ornamental foliage plant prized for its deeply ruffled, velvety leaves in rich shades of burgundy, purple, and nearly black. Its intensely colored foliage creates bold contrast throughout the growing season, making it a standout in containers, shaded borders, and mixed plantings. Compact, vigorous, and easy to grow, this striking variety provides season-long interest from spring until frost with very little maintenance.
Key Features
Key Features
Deeply ruffled foliage in rich burgundy to nearly black
Bold color from spring until frost
Excellent for containers, borders, and mixed plantings
Compact, bushy growth habit
Thrives in partial shade and morning sun
Easy to grow and maintain
Outstanding contrast plant for colorful flowers and lighter foliage
Ideal Uses
Ideal Uses
Shade gardens
Containers
Patio planters
Borders and edging
Mixed annual beds
Cottage gardens
Accent plantings
Why I Grow It
Why I Grow It
I grow Black Dragon Coleus because it's one of the most dramatic foliage plants available. Its intensely colored, almost black leaves provide an incredible contrast against bright flowers and silver or chartreuse foliage, instantly adding depth and texture to the garden. I also appreciate its compact growth habit and how effortlessly it fills containers and shaded beds with season-long color. Even without a single flower, Black Dragon becomes a focal point wherever it's planted, proving that beautiful foliage can be just as striking as blooms.
Care Tips:
Care Tips:
Plant in partial shade for the richest foliage color, though morning sun is beneficial in cooler climates.
Keep soil consistently moist but well-drained.
Pinch growing tips regularly to encourage a dense, bushy plant.
Remove flower spikes as they develop to maintain vigorous foliage growth.
Fertilize lightly every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer throughout the growing season.
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