Coleus scutellarioides 'Stained Glassworks Spacecake' - Characteristics and Care Guide:

Coleus scutellarioides 'Stained Glassworks Spacecake' is a stunning indoor plant with vibrantly colorful leaves that bring warmth to any space. The center of each leaf glows bright yellow, blending into deep red and burgundy, and ending with a lively green margin. This mix adds beautiful contrast to your indoor collection. Whether you're brightening up a shaded corner or creating a vibrant plant display, 'Spacecake' always makes an impact. Plus, it's easy to care for, making it perfect for both beginner and experienced enthusiasts.
 

Key Features:

Striking Color Palette: The leaves of 'Stained Glassworks Spacecake' are a mesmerizing mix of bright yellow, deep red, burgundy, and green. This striking palette makes it perfect for adding color and character to your indoor decor.

Lush, Textured Leaves: The slightly textured leaves create a unique visual and tactile element, making it a beautiful focal point in any room.

Compact Growth Habit: 'Spacecake' grows with a compact, rounded form, ideal for containers and tight spaces, giving you more options for placement.

Shade Tolerant: It adapts well to lower-light conditions, making it great for homes or offices without direct sunlight. This adaptability makes 'Spacecake' an excellent low-maintenance choice for any indoor setting.
 

Care Instructions for Coleus scutellarioides 'Stained Glassworks Spacecake'
To keep your 'Spacecake' healthy and thriving, follow these straightforward care tips:

Light
Place your 'Spacecake' in a spot with bright, indirect light, ideally near a north or east-facing window. It can handle some shade, but very low light may cause the vibrant colors to fade. Aim for soft, filtered light to keep those colors rich.

Watering
Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid waterlogging. Let the top 1-2 cm of soil dry slightly between waterings. In winter, reduce watering, while in spring and summer, water more frequently to help your plant thrive. Proper watering keeps colors vivid and prevents root issues.

Temperature
Keep your 'Spacecake' in a warm environment, ideally between 18-25°C. Avoid drafts and cold temperatures below 10°C as these can harm the plant. Stable warmth keeps your Coleus healthy and colorful, ideal for indoor settings.

Humidity
Coleus 'Spacecake' loves moderate to high humidity levels. You can group it with other plants or use a humidity tray to keep the surrounding air moist. Consistent humidity keeps the foliage lush and vibrant.

Soil
' Spacecake' prefers a well-draining, nutrient-rich soil mix that’s slightly acidic. A good potting mix with added perlite or peat moss is ideal to improve drainage and keep the roots healthy. This prevents root rot and helps your Coleus flourish.

Repotting and Pot Choice
Repot 'Spacecake' every 1-2 years, or when you notice the roots filling the current pot. Use a pot with drainage holes to prevent water from pooling. Repot in spring to give your plant room to grow during its active period.

Fertilizing
Feed 'Spacecake' monthly with a balanced liquid fertilizer during its growing season. Regular feeding encourages lush growth and vibrant leaf colors.

Propagation
Propagating 'Spacecake' is simple and rewarding. The best time is in spring or early summer. Cut a healthy 10-15 cm stem, remove the lower leaves, and place it in water or moist soil until roots develop. It's a great way to expand your collection or share with friends.

Hydroponics
' Spacecake' is also suitable for hydroponic systems, making it a versatile choice for enthusiasts. Use a lightweight growing medium like clay pebbles and a balanced nutrient solution for leafy greens. Stable water conditions and consistent nutrients will keep your Coleus thriving.

Pruning
Prune 'Spacecake' regularly during its growing season to keep it full and bushy. Use clean, sharp scissors to avoid spreading diseases. Trimming leggy growth encourages new shoots, keeping your plant compact and lush.

Placement
Position 'Spacecake' where it gets bright, indirect light, such as near a north or east-facing window. Avoid placing near heating vents or air conditioners, as drafts can stress the plant. Keep it in a bright but sheltered spot to maintain its vivid colors.
 

Problems and Solutions for Coleus scutellarioides 'Stained Glassworks Spacecake'

Root Rot
Root rot is often caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Ensure excess water can drain freely and use well-draining soil to avoid this problem.

Pests
' Spacecake' may occasionally attract pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and whiteflies. Keeping humidity balanced and ensuring good airflow helps prevent infestations. If you spot pests, use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Regularly cleaning the leaves keeps the plant healthy.

Yellowing Leaves
Yellow leaves usually mean overwatering. You might also notice a musty smell or mold on the soil surface. Allow the top of the soil to dry slightly before watering again, and always use a pot with drainage holes to avoid waterlogging.

Drooping Leaves
Typically a sign of underwatering. Check soil moisture regularly to ensure it stays slightly moist but never waterlogged.

Faded Colors
If the foliage colors start to fade, this could be due to insufficient light or high temperature stress. Move the plant to a brighter spot with indirect light and ensure it is in an environment within the ideal temperature range.
 

Additional Care Considerations:
To keep your Coleus looking its best, place it in an area with bright, indirect light, such as near a north or east-facing window. Avoid direct midday sun, as this may scorch the leaves. Taking the time to research where the species originates and how it grows naturally can help you better understand its needs. By mimicking these conditions, you can ensure that your 'Spacecake' doesn’t just survive but truly thrives.

Etymology:
The genus name Coleus comes from the Ancient Greek word “koleós,” meaning sheath, in reference to how the plant’s stamens are united. The species name, Coleus scutellarioides, refers to the plant's unique flower form. The cultivar name 'Stained Glassworks Spacecake' pays homage to its dramatic, colorful foliage, which resembles stained glass and has an almost otherworldly appearance.
 

Frequently Asked Questions:

How often should I water my Coleus 'Stained Glassworks Spacecake'?
Water whenever the top 1-2 cm of soil feels dry. Consistent moisture is key, but avoid waterlogging.

Can I grow Coleus outdoors?
Yes, Coleus can be grown outdoors in mild climates, but bring it inside if temperatures drop below 10°C.

Does 'Spacecake' need pruning?
Prune regularly to encourage a bushier shape and remove any leggy growth.

Order your very own Coleus 'Stained Glassworks Spacecake' today and introduce a burst of vibrant color into your space!