Yes, certain varieties of Coleus, most notably Coleus caninus, are known to produce a distinct and often pungent smell, especially when their leaves are touched or bruised.
While the genus Coleus encompasses a wide range of plants, the specific type that gardeners often inquire about for its aroma is Coleus caninus, commonly referred to by various names due to its unique characteristics.
Understanding the Scent of Coleus caninus
Coleus caninus is an attractive, frost-tender perennial plant that provides lush greenery and striking blue flowers in summer. It typically forms a neat bush, making it a popular choice for garden beds and containers. However, its most notable feature is its distinctive scent.
Characteristics of the Smell:
- Pungent and Unpleasant: The leaves of Coleus caninus possess a strong, unpleasant smell to humans. This aroma is described as pungent, a term often used for intense, sharp odors.
- Triggered by Contact: The scent is not constantly emanating from the plant. Instead, it is mostly detected when the leaves are touched or bruised. This means that simply walking by the plant might not release its full fragrance; direct interaction is usually required.
- Leaf Appearance: The plant's rounded to scallop-edged green or grey-green leaves are the source of this potent smell. These leaves contain volatile compounds that are released upon rupture of the plant cells.
Practical Applications of the Aroma:
Beyond its ornamental value, the strong scent of Coleus caninus serves a practical purpose. It is widely recognized for its cat-deterring qualities, often planted in gardens to discourage feline visitors from certain areas. This natural repellent action is a direct result of the compounds that create its characteristic unpleasant smell.
Managing the Aroma of Scented Coleus
For gardeners who appreciate the visual appeal of Coleus caninus but prefer to minimize its strong odor, here are some practical tips:
- Strategic Placement: Plant Coleus caninus in areas where it is less likely to be brushed against or disturbed frequently, such as along garden borders or in dedicated beds.
- Careful Handling: When pruning or tending to the plant, wear gardening gloves to avoid direct contact with the leaves, which can transfer the scent to your hands.
- Adequate Spacing: Ensure good air circulation around the plant. While this won't eliminate the scent when disturbed, it can help dissipate any lingering odors more quickly.
- Companion Planting: Consider planting it alongside other fragrant plants that you enjoy to create a diverse olfactory experience in your garden, potentially masking some of the Coleus caninus aroma.
Understanding that the smell is primarily released upon physical interaction allows gardeners to enjoy the plant's aesthetic benefits while managing its unique aromatic characteristics.
