Coleus Black Dragon: Complete Growing Guide
- Alla P.
- Feb 12
- 3 min read
Coleus 'Black Dragon' stands out among ornamental plants for its dramatically dark, ruffled foliage that adds depth and contrast to gardens and container displays. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about growing and maintaining this striking variety.
About Coleus Black Dragon
Coleus 'Black Dragon' emerged as part of the modern wave of coleus breeding that focused on creating darker, more dramatic foliage varieties. While the exact breeding history isn't widely documented, it was developed to emphasize the deepest purple-black leaf colors possible in coleus. It gained popularity in the 1990s and early 2000s as gardeners began seeking more dramatic foliage plants for shade gardens.
Coleus 'Black Dragon' variety has become highly sought after for several reasons:
Its exceptionally dark foliage provides unique contrast in gardens
The ruffled, serrated leaves add an interesting texture
It's relatively stable in terms of color (doesn't revert easily)
Performs well in containers and as a houseplant
Makes an excellent "thriller" element in container designs
Several other dark coleus varieties share characteristics with Black Dragon:
'Dark Star' - Similar deep color but with smoother leaf edges
'Black Prince' - Darker purple with less ruffling
'Midnight Rambler' - Trailing habit with dark foliage
'Dark Chocolate' - Brown-purple tones
'Black Magic' - Similar depth of color but different leaf shape
'Palisandra' — Dramatic dark extra large leaves
The variety has influenced modern coleus breeding, contributing to the development of other dark-leafed cultivars. It's often used as a parent plant in breeding programs seeking to create new varieties with dramatic coloring.
Plant Characteristics
Coleus 'Black Dragon' features distinctive traits:
Deep purple-black foliage with ruffled edges
Mature height: 12-18 inches
Spread: 12-15 inches
Upright, bushy growth habit
Serrated leaf margins with unique texture
Occasional burgundy undertones in bright light
Small blue flower spikes (typically removed)
Coleus Black Dragon Growing Requirements
Light Conditions
Bright, indirect light ideal
Morning sun tolerated
Afternoon shade essential
Indoor bright filtered light
Protection from intense sunlight
Color intensifies with proper light
Coleus Black Dragon Temperature Needs
Optimal range: 60-85°F (16-29°C)
Minimum: 55°F (13°C)
No frost tolerance
Consistent temperatures preferred
Protect from cold drafts
Winter indoor protection needed
Coleus Black Dragon Soil Requirements
Well-draining potting mix
Rich organic matter content
pH 6.0-7.0
Consistent moisture retention
Good aeration essential
Regular amendment beneficial
Watering Guidelines
Moisture Needs
Keep soil consistently moist
Never allow complete drying
Avoid waterlogging
Check soil daily
Adjust for seasonal changes
Monitor humidity levels
Watering Technique
Water at soil level
Avoid wetting foliage
Morning watering preferred
Use room temperature water
Ensure proper drainage
Monitor water needs
Coleus Black Dragon Fertilization Schedule
Coleus Black Dragon Growing Season
Feed every 2-3 weeks
Balanced water-soluble fertilizer
Half-strength application
Increase for heavy feeders
Monitor growth response
Adjust based on performance
Coleus Black Dragon Dormant Period
Reduce feeding frequency
Quarter-strength solution
Monitor plant needs
Resume when growth activates
Avoid winter feeding
Prepare for spring growth
Pruning and Maintenance of Coleus Black Dragon
Regular Pruning
Pinch growing tips regularly
Remove flower spikes
Shape for bushiness
Control height
Maintain form
Encourage branching
Grooming
Remove damaged leaves
Clean fallen debris
Monitor for disease
Maintain air circulation
Regular inspection
Prevention focus
Common Problems or Coleus Black Dragon
Disease Prevention
Watch for root rot
Monitor for powdery mildew
Check for leaf spot
Maintain air flow
Practice clean cultivation
Quick problem response
Pest Management
Check for mealybugs
Monitor for spider mites
Watch for aphids
Use natural controls
Regular inspection
Preventive measures
Seasonal Care of Coleus Black Dragon
Spring
Resume active growth care
Increase watering
Start fertilization
Begin pruning
Monitor temperature
Prepare for outdoor transition
Summer
Maintain consistent moisture
Protect from heat
Continue feeding
Regular pruning
Monitor color development
Watch for stress
Fall
Reduce watering
Decrease feeding
Prepare for indoor move
Monitor temperature
Take cuttings
Clean up plants
Winter
Minimal watering
Stop fertilizing
Maintain temperature
Provide humidity
Monitor light
Prevent drafts
Design Applications
Growing Coleus Black Dragon in Soil
Shade garden focal point
Container specimen
Border plantings
Color contrast
Texture addition
Mass plantings
Growing Coleus Black Dragon in Container or Pot
Solo specimen
Mixed combinations
Thriller element
Patio display
Indoor feature
Seasonal accent
Advanced Growing Tips
Coleus Black Dragon Color Enhancement
Light management
Temperature control
Nutrient balance
Stress prevention
Pruning timing
Environmental control
Coleus Black Dragon Size Control
Regular pinching
Root management
Container size
Fertilizer adjustment
Growth regulation
Shape maintenance
Troubleshooting
Coleus Black Dragon Color Issues
Light problems
Temperature stress
Nutrient deficiency
Water stress
Environmental factors
Recovery methods
Coleus Black Dragon Growth Problems
Leggy growth
Poor branching
Slow development
Leaf drop
Size issues
Corrective measures
Coleus 'Black Dragon' offers dramatic beauty and relatively easy care when its basic needs are met. Success with this variety comes from understanding its requirements and maintaining consistent care routines. With proper attention to light, water, and maintenance needs, this striking plant can provide stunning foliage display in both indoor and outdoor settings.
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