The Black Pagoda Lipstick Plant, scientifically known as Aeschynanthus longicaulis ‘Black Pagoda’ or Aeschynanthus radicans ‘Black Pagoda’, is a captivating houseplant prized for its unique foliage and vibrant blooms. Its trailing vines make it a popular choice for indoor settings.
Discovering Your Black Pagoda Lipstick Plant
The Black Pagoda Lipstick Plant features striking dark green leaves mottled with lighter green veins. The undersides often display a rich maroon or purple hue. This variegation contributes to its common name, evoking a pagoda.
From the dark calyces, vibrant tubular flowers emerge, typically in shades of orange or yellow-orange, resembling a tube of lipstick. These blooms can appear from summer through winter, given sufficient light. Originating from tropical Southeast Asia, it often grows as an epiphyte on other plants. Its cascading growth habit suits hanging baskets or elevated displays.
Essential Care for Black Pagoda Lipstick Plant
Light
The Black Pagoda Lipstick Plant thrives in bright, indirect light. While it can tolerate medium light conditions, optimal growth and flowering occur in bright, diffused light. Avoid direct, harsh sunlight as it can scorch leaves. An east or north-facing window is ideal. Signs of insufficient light may include smaller leaves or a lack of blooms, while too much direct sun can lead to brown or crispy leaf tips.
Watering
Proper watering is important. This plant prefers its soil to dry out between waterings, as it is susceptible to root rot if kept consistently wet. Allow the top inch or two of soil to feel dry to the touch before watering again. It tolerates some dryness better than overwatering. Ensure the pot has adequate drainage holes.
Soil and Potting
A well-draining, chunky potting mix is suitable. A mixture of two parts potting soil with one part perlite improves drainage and aeration. Other amendments like orchid bark or peat moss also create an airy substrate. Adequate soil aeration prevents root issues.
The plant does not require frequent repotting and prefers being somewhat root-bound. Repot when roots emerge from drainage holes. Select a container only one size larger to avoid over-potting. Spring or summer are the best seasons for repotting.
Temperature and Humidity
It thrives in warm environments, ideally 65°F to 85°F (18°C – 29°C). Protect it from cold drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations. Temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can lead to leaf drop.
While it adapts to average household humidity, it flourishes in higher humidity. To increase humidity, place the plant on a pebble tray, group it with other plants, or use a room humidifier. Occasional misting provides temporary humidity.
Fertilizing
During its active growing season (spring and summer), it benefits from regular fertilization. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half strength, every two to four weeks. In fall and winter, reduce or stop fertilizing. This prevents nutrient buildup and supports dormancy.
Propagating Black Pagoda Lipstick Plant
Propagating is achieved through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem and cut a few inches long, just below a leaf node. Remove the lower leaves to expose at least two or three nodes.
Cuttings can be rooted in water or a moist potting mix. If rooting in water, ensure exposed nodes are submerged. For soil propagation, dip the cut end in rooting hormone, then plant in a lightweight, well-draining medium. Maintaining high humidity, perhaps by covering with a plastic bag, aids root development. Roots typically form within a few weeks. Once established, transfer new plants to individual pots.
Addressing Common Plant Challenges
Black Pagoda Lipstick Plants are resilient, but issues can arise. Yellowing leaves indicate improper watering or insufficient light. Overwatering leads to drooping or yellowing foliage and can cause root rot. Crispy or browning leaf tips suggest low humidity or underwatering.
Lack of blooming is often due to insufficient light, as the plant requires bright, indirect conditions for flowers. Leggy growth, with elongated stems and sparse foliage, signals inadequate light. Pruning leggy stems encourages bushier growth.
While not frequently affected, it can encounter common houseplant pests like aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites. Regular inspection, especially of leaf undersides, helps early detection. Mild infestations can be addressed with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Maintaining appropriate humidity deters spider mites, which thrive in dry conditions.