The lipstick plant (Aeschynanthus radicans) is a popular, striking, evergreen perennial, often grown as a houseplant. It gets its name from its vibrant red, tubular flowers that resemble a tube of lipstick. In its native tropical habitat, this is an epiphytic species found growing from tree branches and cracks in rocks. As a houseplant, it should be planted in a well-draining potting mix If the plant gets enough warmth, humidity, and filtered sunlight, you'll enjoy a prolific display of flowers through much of the year with the most abundant show in the summer and fall.
Even with its impressive, tropical appearance, the lipstick plant is generally considered to be
an easy to care for houseplant. Here are the main care requirements for growing a lipstick plant:
-
Place in a position with bright, filtered light.
-
Keep higher-than-average humidity levels and protection from sudden temperature changes.
-
Maintain consistent moisture in the growing season, while being mindful of the plant's sensitivity to overwatering.
-
Use a loose, well-draining potting mix.
-
Feed regularly with diluted fertilizer in the growing season.
Lipstick plants need bright and indirect light is what they thrive in. Too much direct sunlight can cause leaf scorch, and too little will result in a poor display of flowering and leaf drop
In their native damp and tropical regions, these plants typically grow in an almost soil-free environment often rooting onto branches or rock crevices. Heavy potting soil can cause root rot to develop.
Potted lipstick plants will benefit from being grown in a medium that is well-aerated, evenly moist, and light. Many enthusiasts include sand and sphagnum moss in their mix to help ensure good drainage, prevent over-compaction, and promote absorbency.
Although lipstick plants like consistent moisture, particularly during their most prolific growing period, overwatering and saturated conditions can lead to root rot, leaf drop, and fungal issues.
Moderate watering is best. Ideally, you want to avoid allowing the potting medium to dry out completely and offer water when the top couple of inches are no longer damp.
-
Aeschynanthus radicans ‘Curly’: The leaves on this cultivar are wavy rather than smooth in appearance, meaning it stands out from the crowd.
-
Aeschynanthus radicans ‘Mona Lisa’:Known for having a distinctive orange-red shade of flowers rather than the vibrant red of a traditional lipstick plant.
-
Aeschynanthus radicans ‘Variegata’:The green leaves of this cultivar are variegated with yellow, white, or cream.
-
Aeschynanthus radicans 'Tangerine': This cultivar is unique for its yellow-orange flowers.
