The Twister Lipstick Plant, Aeschynanthus radicans ‘Twister’, is a captivating houseplant admired for its distinct appearance. It features long, trailing stems adorned with uniquely twisted, glossy green leaves. From these lush vines emerge bright red, tube-like flowers that resemble a tube of lipstick, giving the plant its common name. This aesthetic makes it popular for hanging baskets or elevated displays where its cascading foliage can be showcased. Native to Southeast Asian rainforests, this epiphytic plant naturally grows on other plants or rocks, absorbing moisture and nutrients from its environment rather than directly from the soil.
Twister Lipstick Plant Care
Light Needs
The Twister Lipstick Plant thrives in bright, indirect light. Placing it near an east or north-facing window, or a few feet away from a south or west-facing window, provides suitable conditions. Direct, harsh sunlight can scorch its leaves, causing black patches and damage. Insufficient light leads to leggy growth with sparse leaves and may hinder blooming. Adequate light is important for vibrant foliage and to encourage continuous flowering.
Watering
Proper watering maintains a healthy Twister Lipstick Plant, balancing moisture without oversaturation. Allow the top 1 to 2 inches (2-5 cm) of the soil to dry out before watering again. Overwatering leads to root rot, characterized by dull, yellowing, or shrivelled leaves, while underwatering results in crispy or shrivelled leaves. Water thoroughly until water drains from the bottom of the pot, then remove any standing water. Adjust watering frequency based on environmental factors; plants require more water in warmer, brighter conditions and less during cooler, darker periods.
Soil Requirements
For this epiphytic plant, a well-draining, airy potting mix is important. A suitable mix includes components like peat moss, perlite, and orchid bark or coco coir. This substrate prevents waterlogging, a common cause of root issues. The mix should be rich in organic materials, allowing for proper aeration and drainage to support healthy root development.
Temperature and Humidity
Twister Lipstick Plants prefer warm, consistent temperatures, ideally between 65°F and 75°F (18°C to 24°C). While they tolerate slightly cooler conditions, temperatures should not consistently fall below 60°F (15°C), as cold drafts or sudden temperature drops can cause leaf yellowing and leaf drop. High humidity is also beneficial. Dry air can lead to crispy leaf edges and reduced flowering.
To increase humidity, consider using a pebble tray filled with water, grouping the plant with other humidity-loving plants, or employing a room humidifier. Misting provides temporary humidity but may contribute to fungal issues if done improperly.
Fertilizing
During its active growing season, spring and summer, the Twister Lipstick Plant benefits from regular fertilization. Use a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer, diluted to half-strength, to prevent nutrient burn. Fertilizing once or twice a month supports lush growth and encourages blooming. Reduce or stop fertilization during the fall and winter months when the plant’s growth naturally slows. Over-fertilization can lead to nutrient burn, which may manifest as brown leaf tips.
Propagating Twister Lipstick Plant
Propagating the Twister Lipstick Plant is achieved through stem cuttings. Select healthy, non-blooming stems and cut sections approximately 4 to 6 inches (10-15 cm) long using clean, sharp scissors or shears. Remove leaves from the bottom 1 to 2 inches of each cutting, as new roots will emerge there.
You can root cuttings in either water or a well-draining potting mix. For water rooting, place cut ends into lukewarm water, ensuring no leaves are submerged. For soil propagation, prepare a mix with perlite or sand to enhance drainage, and insert about one-third of the cutting’s length into the soil.
Rooting hormone can be applied to encourage root development, though it is optional. Maintain consistent moisture in the soil and provide a warm, humid environment with bright, indirect light for optimal rooting. Rooting occurs within a few weeks, after which cuttings can be transplanted into their permanent pots.
Pruning Twister Lipstick Plant
Pruning the Twister Lipstick Plant maintains its shape, encourages bushier growth, and promotes new blooms. This removes leggy or scraggly stems, or tidies the plant’s appearance. The ideal time for significant pruning is after the plant has finished its main flowering period, in late summer or early fall.
Use clean, sharp shears to make cuts just above a leaf node, where new growth will emerge. Avoid removing more than one-third of the plant’s total length at one time to prevent shock. Regular light trimming of spent flowers encourages more blooms. Pruned stems can also be used for propagation.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
The Twister Lipstick Plant is resilient, but issues can arise from improper care. Yellowing leaves often signal overwatering, especially if the soil remains soggy. Conversely, crispy or shrivelled leaves indicate underwatering or insufficient humidity. Adjusting your watering schedule to allow the topsoil to dry before rewatering, and ensuring proper drainage, resolves these moisture-related problems.
A lack of blooms points to insufficient light, as the plant needs bright, indirect light to flower successfully. Moving the plant to a brighter location stimulates blooming. Pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids affect these plants. These are managed by wiping them off with a damp cloth or treating the plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap. Maintaining appropriate humidity levels helps deter spider mites, which thrive in dry conditions.