Definition

Noun: 1. A perennial aromatic herb native to southeastern Asia, characterized by its large, often brightly colored or patterned leaves and spikes of blue-violet flowers. It is cultivated primarily as an ornamental foliage plant. Its botanical classification is Plectranthus scutellarioides, but it was formerly placed in the genus Solenostemon and is commonly known as coleus.

Usage Notes

• The term "painted nettle" is a common name used primarily in horticulture and gardening. It refers specifically to the ornamental plant known for its vibrant, decorative leaves.
• It is not a true nettle and does not have stinging hairs. The name "nettle" is used due to a superficial resemblance in leaf shape.

Examples

• The painted nettle added a splash of red and yellow to the shaded border of the garden.
• She propagated her painted nettle by taking stem cuttings.
• Botanists note that the painted nettle thrives in warm, humid conditions.

Advanced Usage

• In botanical and horticultural contexts, the scientific name is preferred for precision. The term "painted nettle" is considered a layman's term or a common name.
• The phrase can be used descriptively to highlight color: "The foliage was as variegated as a painted nettle."

Variants and Related Words

• Coleus: The most common synonym and garden name for the painted nettle.
• : The current accepted scientific name.
• : A former scientific name, still used in some references.

Synonyms

• Coleus
• Flame nettle (another common name based on leaf color)

Related Phrases/Idioms

• None directly associated. The term "painted nettle" is a specific plant name and is not typically used in idiomatic expressions.

Noun

1. perennial aromatic herb of southeastern Asia having large usually bright-colored or blotched leaves and spikes of blue-violet flowers; sometimes placed in genus Solenostemon