Genus of about 150 species of annuals, evergreen perennials.With colorful leaves, Coleus are perfect for providing constant brightness in shaded and partly-shaded areas. Leaves on different varieties can be heart- or lance-shaped, laced or fringed, and variously-edged, mottled or streaked in mixes of chartreuse, red, lime, pink, salmon, yellow, purple and green. Use as bedding, edging or container plants. Too much sun will bleach colors out, and too much shade will result in poor growth and less colorful leaves, so keep shade partial. Easy to grow from seed. Pinch young plants to encourage bushiness. Pinch inconspicuous flowers before they develop. Mist the leaves in summer.