Aeschynanthus radicans (Lipstick Plant) Care Guide
Overview
Aeschynanthus radicans, commonly known as the Lipstick Plant, is a striking tropical houseplant prized for its cascading foliage and vivid tubular red flowers. Native to the Malay Peninsula through to Java, this epiphytic species thrives in warm, humid environments similar to its rainforest origins. Its nickname comes from the flower buds, which resemble tubes of lipstick before they unfurl. With proper care, it can bloom multiple times a year, adding vibrant color to indoor spaces.
Identification & Growth Habit
The Lipstick Plant is a trailing or climbing evergreen perennial. In its natural habitat, it grows as an epiphyte, clinging to trees and draping downwards. Indoors, it forms long, arching stems adorned with glossy, leathery, lance-shaped leaves. Mature plants can trail 2–3 feet (60–90 cm) or more, making them ideal for hanging baskets or trained up supports. The vibrant flowers typically appear in clusters at stem tips, with a deep red corolla emerging from a darker tubular calyx.
Light & Placement
Provide bright, indirect light to encourage healthy growth and abundant blooms. Direct midday sun can scorch leaves, while insufficient light may reduce flowering. An east-facing window offers gentle morning sun, and a bright north-facing window is also suitable. If growing in a south or west exposure, filter the light with sheer curtains.
- Ideal placement: Hanging baskets near bright windows, plant shelves with filtered light, or on a stand near an east-facing window.
- Avoid: Dark corners or prolonged direct sun exposure.
Watering & Humidity
Water when the top inch (2.5 cm) of soil feels dry to the touch. Use lukewarm, filtered water to mimic its tropical environment. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure the pot has drainage holes and never allow the plant to sit in standing water.
- Humidity: Prefers high humidity (60%+). Mist regularly, use a humidifier, or group plants together to maintain moisture in the air.
- Seasonal adjustment: Reduce watering slightly in winter when growth slows.
Soil & Repotting
Use a well-draining, airy mix similar to orchid media. A blend of peat moss, perlite, and fine bark chips works well, allowing roots to breathe while retaining some moisture. Repot every 2–3 years or when roots become crowded, ideally in spring before the active growing season.
Fertilizing
During spring and summer, feed every two weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. In fall and winter, reduce feeding to once a month or pause if the plant is not actively growing. Over-fertilizing can cause salt buildup and leaf tip burn, so flush the soil occasionally with plain water.
Pruning & Training
Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage branching. Remove any dead or leggy stems with clean, sharp scissors. The Lipstick Plant can be trained to climb a small trellis or moss pole, though it is most often grown as a trailing specimen. Pinching back stem tips promotes fuller growth and more flowering sites.
Propagation
Step-by-Step Stem Cutting Method
- Select a healthy stem with at least two leaf nodes.
- Using sterilized scissors, cut just below a node.
- Remove the lower leaves, leaving at least one pair at the tip.
- Place the cutting in water or insert into moist, well-draining potting mix.
- If rooting in water, change the water every few days to prevent stagnation.
- Keep in bright, indirect light and maintain high humidity until roots are 1–2 inches long.
- Transplant rooted cuttings into small pots with the recommended soil mix.
Common Problems
Pests
- Mealybugs: White, cottony masses on stems and leaves. Remove with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol and isolate affected plants.
- Aphids: Small green or black insects on new growth. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites: Fine webbing and speckled leaves. Increase humidity and use miticide if needed.
Diseases
- Root rot: Caused by overwatering and poor drainage. Remove affected roots, repot in fresh mix, and adjust watering habits.
- Leaf spot: Brown or black spots may indicate fungal issues; improve air circulation and avoid wetting leaves excessively.
Toxicity & Pet Safety
The Lipstick Plant is considered toxic if ingested by pets or humans. Keep it out of reach of cats, dogs, and small children. Symptoms may include gastrointestinal upset if consumed.
Styling & Decor Tips
With its trailing stems and bright blooms, the Lipstick Plant excels in hanging baskets, macramé holders, or elevated shelves where its foliage can cascade freely. It pairs well with other tropical plants such as ferns and philodendrons for a lush, layered look. For a climbing display, train stems up a decorative trellis in a tabletop pot.
Varieties & Cultivars
- Aeschynanthus radicans ‘Mona Lisa’: Known for larger, showier flowers.
- Aeschynanthus radicans ‘Variegata’: Features leaves with creamy margins.
- Aeschynanthus radicans ‘Black Pagoda’: Distinctive mottled foliage with dark maroon undersides.
Buying Tips & Maturity
When selecting a Lipstick Plant, look for healthy, glossy leaves without spots or yellowing. Check for signs of pests under leaves and along stems. Flower buds or current blooms indicate good growing conditions. Young plants may take a season or more to reach full blooming potential; mature specimens will have longer, fuller trails and more flower clusters.
Seasonal Care
- Spring/Summer: Peak growth and flowering season. Maintain regular feeding, consistent watering, and high humidity.
- Fall: Gradually reduce feeding; maintain light and humidity to encourage late blooms.
- Winter: Growth slows; water less frequently but do not allow soil to completely dry. Protect from cold drafts and maintain humidity indoors.
FAQ
- How often does a Lipstick Plant bloom? With proper light and care, it can bloom several times a year, especially in spring and summer.
- Why are my Lipstick Plant’s leaves dropping? Common causes include overwatering, sudden temperature changes, or insufficient light.
- Can I grow a Lipstick Plant outdoors? In warm, frost-free climates, it can be grown outdoors in shaded, humid areas. Otherwise, keep it indoors.
- Do I need to prune after flowering? Yes, pruning after blooms fade encourages branching and more flowers in the next cycle.
- What’s the best container for a Lipstick Plant? A hanging basket or pot with good drainage is ideal to accommodate its trailing habit.
