The plant commonly known as the “lipstick hoya” is Aeschynanthus radicans. This popular houseplant is admired for its glossy, dark green foliage and vibrant, tubular flowers. Its distinctive blooms emerge from dark, tube-like structures, resembling a tube of lipstick. Native to the humid tropical forests of Southeast Asia, Aeschynanthus radicans is an epiphyte, growing naturally on other plants. Its trailing vines make it ideal for hanging baskets or elevated planters.
Caring for Your Lipstick Plant
The Lipstick Plant thrives in conditions that mimic its tropical origins. Providing the right environment allows this plant to flourish and produce its characteristic blooms. Consistent care is key for its overall health.
Light
Lipstick Plants prefer bright, indirect light. Place the plant near an east or west-facing window, or a few feet from a south or west-facing window with filtered light. Direct, harsh sunlight can scorch its leaves, while insufficient light may lead to leggy growth and fewer flowers. If natural light is limited, supplementing with a grow light is beneficial.
Water
The Lipstick Plant prefers consistent moisture but is sensitive to overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Allow the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry out between waterings before rehydrating thoroughly. Always ensure the pot has good drainage to prevent water accumulation. During winter, when growth slows, reduce watering frequency.
Soil
A well-draining, airy potting mix is important for the Lipstick Plant’s root development. A blend of peat moss, perlite, and orchid bark is often recommended, mimicking its natural epiphytic growing conditions. This combination ensures adequate drainage while retaining sufficient moisture and nutrients. The optimal soil pH is slightly acidic to neutral, typically between 6.0 and 7.0.
Temperature and Humidity
Lipstick Plants thrive in warm conditions, with an ideal temperature range between 65°F and 80°F (18°C to 27°C). Protect the plant from sudden temperature drops and cold drafts, as these can cause stress and lead to leaf drop. High humidity levels are also beneficial, ideally between 60-80%, reflecting its tropical habitat. Increase humidity by placing the plant on a pebble tray with water, using a room humidifier, or occasionally misting the leaves.
Fertilizing
During the active growing season in spring and summer, fertilize your Lipstick Plant every two to four weeks. Use a balanced, water-soluble liquid fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 formula, diluted to half strength. This provides nutrients for robust foliage and vibrant blooms. Reduce or cease fertilizing during fall and winter when the plant’s growth naturally slows.
Encouraging Blooms
Encouraging the Lipstick Plant to produce flowers involves specific environmental adjustments. Adequate light intensity is a primary factor for abundant blooming. While bright, indirect light is essential, ensuring the plant receives ample intensity without direct sun exposure promotes flower development.
Proper fertilization also plays a role in bloom production. During the growing season, using a bloom-boosting fertilizer with a higher phosphorus content can stimulate more flowers. This specialized nutrient profile supports the energy demands of flowering. Additionally, a slight drop in temperature at night, by approximately 10°F (5°C), can contribute to bud formation.
Pruning after flowering encourages new growth and subsequent blooms. Trimming back leggy stems to about 6 to 8 inches stimulates bushier growth, providing more sites for new flowers to emerge. This practice redirects the plant’s energy towards developing more flowering stems.
Propagating New Plants
Propagating Aeschynanthus radicans is most effectively done through stem cuttings. The best time for propagation is during spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Select a healthy, non-flowering stem approximately 4-6 inches long with at least two to three leaf nodes.
Remove leaves from the bottom portion of the cutting, exposing the nodes. Root the cutting in water or a well-draining potting mix. If rooting in water, ensure only leafless nodes are submerged, and change the water every few days. For soil propagation, dip the cut end in rooting hormone, if desired, and plant it in a mix of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite or orchid bark.
Regardless of the method, maintain a warm, humid environment for the cuttings. Covering the pot with a plastic bag or placing it in a mini-greenhouse helps create the necessary humidity. Keep the cuttings in indirect light; roots should begin to form within two to four weeks. Once roots are established, new plants can be potted individually.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
While the Lipstick Plant is generally resilient, common issues can arise if care requirements are not met. Yellowing leaves often signal overwatering or poor drainage. Ensuring the soil dries adequately between waterings and that the pot has proper drainage can resolve this. Nutrient deficiencies or insufficient light can also contribute to yellowing foliage.
Leaf drop can occur due to too much or too little water, drastic temperature changes, or inadequate light. Maintaining consistent watering, allowing the topsoil to dry, and protecting the plant from cold drafts helps prevent leaf shedding. If the plant is not blooming, it indicates insufficient light or a need for specialized fertilizer. Moving the plant to a brighter location or providing a phosphorus-rich fertilizer can encourage flowering.
Common pests include aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs. Regular inspection and prompt treatment with insecticidal soap or neem oil manage these infestations. Fungal issues, such as root rot or gray mold, develop in overly humid or waterlogged conditions. Improving air circulation and ensuring well-draining soil are important preventative measures.