SPECIMEN NO. #54
⚠️ TOXIC TO PETS
Family: Lamiaceae
Coleus scutellarioides
Common Name: Coleus
Coleus (Coleus scutellarioides) is a houseplant in the Lamiaceae family, native to Australia. It is a bright indirect-light species that thrives between 2000 and 6000 lux. Optimal indoor care calls for watering roughly every 5 days, temperatures of 15–30°C, and about 55% humidity. According to ASPCA data, it is toxic to dogs and cats; reported symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, depression, anorexia, bloody diarrhea (essential oils). It is also known as Coleus.
ASPCA Pet Toxicity Determination
Toxic to Dogs?
YES (Toxic)
Toxic to Cats?
YES (Toxic)
Clinical Symptoms:
Vomiting, diarrhea, depression, anorexia, bloody diarrhea (essential oils).
Quantitative Care Thresholds
Light Level Profile
Bright Indirect
Minimum Light Requirement
2000 Lux
Maximum Light Tolerance
6000 Lux
Watering Frequency
Every 5 Days
Temperature Envelope
15°C – 30°C
Ideal Ambient Humidity
55% RH
Taxonomic & Field Verification
GBIF Usage Key
5341492
Native Biogeographical Range
Australia; Bangladesh; Belize; Bismarck Archipelago; Bogotá; Caribbean; Germany ...