The lipstick plant, Aeschynanthus radicans, is a popular houseplant known for its unique, vibrant flowers that emerge from dark buds, resembling a tube of lipstick. This perennial features trailing foliage, making it a favorite for hanging baskets. Native to tropical Southeast Asia, the lipstick plant thrives in warm, humid conditions. Its easy care makes it a rewarding choice for indoor gardeners.
Essential Care for Lipstick Plants
Light Needs
Lipstick plants flourish in bright, indirect light. Too much direct sunlight can lead to scorched leaves, while insufficient light may hinder flowering and cause leaf drop. An east or west-facing window is an ideal location for consistent, indirect light exposure.
Watering
Consistent moisture is beneficial for lipstick plants, but they are sensitive to overwatering. Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry out before watering again. Ensuring proper drainage is important, as roots do not tolerate standing water, which can lead to root rot. Reduce watering frequency during the winter months when the plant’s growth slows.
Soil Requirements
A well-draining, airy potting mix is important for lipstick plants. A suitable mix includes components like peat moss, perlite, coconut coir, or orchid bark. This helps prevent root rot.
Temperature and Humidity
Lipstick plants prefer average room temperatures, between 65°F and 75°F (18°C to 24°C). They are sensitive to sudden temperature shifts, cold drafts, and air conditioning vents, which can cause leaf drop. High humidity levels are important for these tropical plants. To increase humidity, consider using a pebble tray, a humidifier, or grouping plants together.
Fertilizing
During the active growing season, spring and summer, feed your lipstick plant with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Dilute the fertilizer to half the recommended strength to prevent nutrient burn. Fertilizing every two to four weeks during this period is sufficient, reducing or stopping entirely in fall and winter. Ensure the soil is damp before applying fertilizer to protect the roots.
Pruning Your Lipstick Plant
Pruning helps maintain the lipstick plant’s shape, encourages bushier growth, and promotes more abundant blooms. After the plant finishes flowering, in late summer to early fall, is a good time for pruning. Make cuts just above a leaf node, removing up to one-third of each vine to stimulate new growth. Use clean, sharp shears.
Propagating Lipstick Plants
Propagating lipstick plants is straightforward, done through stem cuttings. Select healthy, non-flowering stems and cut 4-6 inch sections, ensuring each cutting has two to three leaf nodes. Remove the lower leaves from the cutting before placing it in water or a well-draining potting mix. Roots begin to form within a few weeks, and new plants can be established.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Leaf drop can occur due to fluctuations in watering, drastic temperature changes, or insufficient light. Yellowing leaves signal overwatering or nutrient deficiencies. If your plant is not blooming, it may be receiving too little light or require more consistent fertilization. Pests like aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs can affect lipstick plants. Regularly inspecting the plant and treating with insecticidal soap or neem oil manages infestations.