Watermelon Coleus

Watermelon is a foliage coleus with pink leaf centers, magenta veins, and lime-green edges. Burpee lists it for partially shaded beds and containers, with an approximate mature size of 24 inches tall by 20 inches wide ([Burpee profile](https://www.burpee.com/products/coleus-watermelon-prod000165)). ## Garden use The high-contrast leaves brighten shaded borders, patio pots, and mixed foliage plantings. A University of California, Davis trial also describes the named ‘Watermelon’ selection as bright green and red, about two feet tall and wide, and suited to indirect light or partial shade ([UC Davis trial](https://lieth.ucdavis.edu/Shade/Public/June2011/Coleus_watermelon_20100728_20100920_LLD.pdf)). ## Growing conditions Provide partial shade or shade and water regularly. Coleus can be grown as an annual outdoors or as a container plant; protect it from cold and strong midday exposure. ## Maintenance Pinch stems to encourage a fuller outline. Remove flower spikes if they distract from the foliage display, and keep containers evenly watered during warm weather.