Lipstick Black Patoga

Lipstick Plant ‘Black Pagoda’ (Aeschynanthus longicaulis), also known as Zebra Basket Vine, is a striking tropical plant that adds a bold splash of pattern to your indoor plant collection. Native to Southeast Asia, this variety stands out for its glossy, lance-shaped leaves with dark maroon undersides and mottled green and burgundy patterns on top—giving it the appearance of stained glass. While the "lipstick" nickname comes from the tubular red-orange blooms of the broader Aeschynanthus genus, ‘Black Pagoda’ is especially loved for its unique foliage and vining habit.

This plant thrives in bright, indirect light, which helps maintain the vivid leaf patterns and encourages blooming. Too much direct sun can scorch the foliage, while low light can lead to leggy growth and loss of color. A bright room with filtered light from an east- or north-facing window is ideal. In the right conditions, the plant may surprise you with clusters of orange-red tubular flowers, emerging like lipstick from a tube.

To keep your Black Pagoda happy, water when the top inch of soil feels dry, but avoid letting it sit in soggy soil. A light, well-draining mix—like one for African violets or epiphytic plants—works best. It appreciates higher humidity and warmth, making bathrooms or kitchens great spots if lighting is adequate. Prune lightly to shape and encourage fuller growth. With minimal fuss, the Lipstick Plant ‘Black Pagoda’ brings vibrant energy and a dramatic flair to any space.