From 'The Floral Magazine', 1881:
"It is somewhat difficult for our artist to convey an adequate idea of the richness of colouring found in the leaves of some of the newer forms of the Coleus, as they are intermingled in a striking manner, and many of the hues are exceedingly rich. The splendid novelty now figured was raised at the Mile Ash Nurseries, Derby, by Mr. Edwin Cooling, who will distribute it in May next. The colour of the leaf is bright crimson, veined with darker crimson, and remarkably rich and velvety in appearance. The habit is very free and compact. We are informed by Mr. Cooling that he has tested the qualities of his new variety in the most thorough manner, by growing it by the side of all the best new varieties, and it was generally acknowledged to be the best of its class. As a pot-plant for the decoration of the greenhouse it is unequalled; and in warm situations bids fair to be a most useful and effective bedding plant. We have of late seen several fine new varieties of the Coleus, but that now figured appears to be one of the most distinct and promising."

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