Red coleus

Red is the classic coleus color and the one we have the most varieties of. Here you will find the varieties that range from bright red to wine-red. All are grown from true to type seeds, so the leaves come out in the same colors as in the pictures.

Which red variety should you choose?

Red appears in every series. The varieties range from small and compact to real giants.

• Kong Red – giant leaves in deep red with green edges. No red variety has bigger leaves.
• Kong Scarlet – scarlet on the same giant scale.
• Kong Jr Scarlet – big bright-red leaves on a more compact plant than Kong.
• Colocha Red and Colocha Scarlet – red with wavy leaf edges.
• Wizard Velvet Red – velvet-red leaves in the classic medium size.
• Fairway Red Velvet and Fairway Ruby – small varieties for a pot or a flower bed.
• Giant Exhibition Rustic Red – rust-red giant leaves.
• Premium Sun Ruby Heart and Premium Sun Sweet Paprika – ruby red and paprika red, and sun-tolerant too.

How to get the strongest red color

More light means more red pigment, and more pigment means deeper color. If the plant is in too dark a spot, the green takes over and the red fades. Place the plant in partial shade and the color keeps its full glow all season. You'll find more about placement in Coleus in the sun.

Otherwise you care for red coleus just like any other coleus. Cut off flower buds when they appear and feel free to pinch the plant so it grows bushy and dense. The full guide is in Coleus care.

Frequently asked questions

Are there red coleus?

Yes. Red is the most common coleus color. Varieties like Kong Red, Wizard Velvet Red and Colocha Red have red as their main color and they are grown from seed just like other coleus.

Why is my red coleus losing its color?

Usually it comes down to light. If the plant is in too dark a spot, it produces less red pigment and the leaves turn greener. Move it to a brighter spot and the color comes back.

Are there red coleus that take sun?

Yes. Premium Sun Ruby Heart and Premium Sun Sweet Paprika are bred for sunny spots. You'll find more about sun and coleus in Coleus in the sun.