Coleus scutellarioides 'Main Street Abbey Road' – Vivid and Lush Foliage


Coleus scutellarioides 'Main Street Abbey Road' is a boldly variegated cultivar from the Main Street series by breeder Dümmen Orange. Native to Southeast Asia, Coleus has been cultivated for centuries for its ornamental foliage. 'Abbey Road' features striking lime-green edges and dark green centers, forming a compact, upright plant ideal for bright indoor corners or partially shaded patios.


Key Features of Coleus 'Main Street Abbey Road'

 
Bold Contrast: Leaves have vibrant lime edges and deep green centers with slightly serrated margins.
 
Fast, Upright Growth: Reaches up to 50 cm indoors with a naturally bushy form that benefits from pruning.
 
Leaf Texture: Thin, soft, and matte with pronounced veining and a fine edge curl on mature foliage.
 
Heat Adaptability: Tolerates warm indoor temperatures well with consistent humidity.


Origin and Growth Habit

 
Native Habitat: Indigenous to Java and other parts of Southeast Asia, where it grows in humid forest understories.
 
Indoor Size: Typically 40–50 cm tall and 30–40 cm wide when grown in containers.
 
Growth Stages: Germinates in 7–14 days; matures fully in 10–12 weeks from cuttings under proper light.
 
Flowering: Produces small, pale blue spikes; remove early to divert energy to foliage.
 
Toxicity: Mildly toxic to pets if ingested. Keep out of reach of cats and dogs.


Care Instructions for Coleus 'Abbey Road'

 
Light: Prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid harsh midday sun to preserve leaf color.
 
Watering: Keep soil evenly moist. Water when the top 1–2 cm are dry. Avoid letting the plant sit in water.
 
Humidity: Likes 50%+ humidity. Mist occasionally or place on a humidity tray in dry rooms.
 
Temperature: Grows best at 20–27°C. Avoid cold drafts or temperatures below 15°C.
 
Soil: Use a loose, well-draining mix with compost and added perlite.
 
Fertilizer: Apply diluted liquid fertilizer every 4 weeks in spring/summer.
 
Repotting: Repot annually in spring if rootbound.
 
Pruning: Pinch regularly to maintain shape and prevent legginess. Remove flower spikes early.
 
Propagation: Easily propagated via 10–15 cm stem cuttings in water or moist soil.
 
Semi-Hydro: Adapts well to leca with a mild nutrient solution. Rinse roots before transfer.


Common Issues and How to Fix Them

 
Yellowing Leaves: Usually caused by overwatering or poor drainage.
 
Leaf Fade: Not enough light. Move closer to a bright window but avoid direct sun.
 
Leggy Stems: Happens with low light or infrequent pinching. Trim and relocate to brighter spot.
 
Pests: Susceptible to aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. Treat with insecticidal soap and wipe leaves regularly.
 
Scorched Leaves: Caused by direct sunlight. Filter light using a curtain or reposition plant.


Etymology of Coleus scutellarioides 'Abbey Road'
The genus name Coleus is derived from the Greek "koleos," meaning sheath, referencing the plant’s fused stamens. The species name scutellarioides refers to its resemblance to the genus Scutellaria. The cultivar name 'Abbey Road' is part of the Main Street series, each named after iconic cultural locations.


Frequently Asked Questions

 
Can Coleus 'Abbey Road' grow in hydroponics? Yes, as long as the roots receive oxygen and balanced nutrients.
 
Why are my Coleus leaves dropping? Likely cold stress or dry air. Increase humidity and check temperature range.
 
Can I move it outdoors in summer? Yes, but harden it off first. Avoid direct sun or wind exposure.
 
Is it safe for pets? No, ingestion may cause mild toxicity in pets. Keep out of reach.


Order Coleus 'Main Street Abbey Road' Today!
Brighten your space with the dramatic contrast of Coleus 'Abbey Road'. Compact, colorful, and low-maintenance – it’s the perfect addition to any indoor collection. Order now and enjoy lush color year-round.