Hanging Lipstick Plant - Aeschynanthus radicans

The Lipstick Plant (Aeschynanthus radicans) is a stunning and unique flowering houseplant named for its vibrant, tube-shaped blooms that resemble lipstick emerging from a tube. It's a popular choice for hanging baskets or high shelves due to its cascading vines and bright flowers. Here’s a detailed look at this eye-catching plant:

Key Features:

• Foliage:

  • The plant has thick, waxy, dark green leaves that grow densely along the trailing stems. The leaves are oval-shaped, glossy, and provide a beautiful contrast to the vibrant red flowers.
  • The vines can grow up to 2-3 feet (60-90 cm) long, making it ideal for hanging or trailing over the edges of pots.

• Flowers:

  • The Lipstick Plant produces bright red tubular flowers that emerge from darker, bud-like calyxes, resembling a tube of lipstick. These striking blooms typically appear in clusters and flower throughout the year, especially during the warmer months.
  • The flowers are not only beautiful but also attract hummingbirds (if grown outdoors).

Care:

• Light:

  • Prefers bright, indirect light. It can tolerate some direct sunlight, especially in the morning, but avoid harsh afternoon sun, which can scorch the leaves. In lower light conditions, the plant may struggle to bloom and grow more slowly.

• Water:

  • Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry, but ensure the plant is not sitting in water. It prefers evenly moist soil but can tolerate some drying out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot.

• Soil:

  • Prefers well-draining, airy soil. A standard potting mix combined with perlite or orchid bark works well, as this will allow excess water to drain easily.

• Humidity:

  • The Lipstick Plant thrives in higher humidity and appreciates occasional misting or being placed in a more humid environment, such as a bathroom. In dry environments, using a humidifier or placing the plant on a pebble tray with water can help maintain humidity.

• Temperature:

  • Prefers warm temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C). It doesn’t tolerate cold temperatures well, so keep it away from drafts or places where temperatures drop below 60°F (15°C).

• Fertilizer:

  • Feed the plant with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce feeding during the fall and winter.

Benefits:

• Vibrant Flowers:

  • The Lipstick Plant is primarily grown for its eye-catching, tubular red flowers, which add a pop of color to any indoor space. It’s perfect for people who want a flowering houseplant that blooms consistently in the right conditions.

• Trailing Growth:

  • Its long, trailing vines make it ideal for hanging baskets or shelves where it can cascade down, creating a striking visual display.

• Pet-Friendly:

  • The Lipstick Plant is non-toxic to pets, making it a great option for households with cats or dogs.

Care Tips:

• Prune the plant lightly after flowering to encourage bushier growth and prevent it from becoming too leggy.
• Rotate the plant occasionally to ensure even growth and light exposure.
• If the plant stops blooming, it may need more light or nutrients, or it may need to be repotted if it's root-bound.

Propagation:

• Lipstick Plants are easy to propagate through stem cuttings. Simply cut a 4-6 inch section of the vine, remove the lower leaves, and place the cutting in water or directly into moist soil. Roots will form within a few weeks.