Lipstick Plant: Care Guide and Maintenance
The Lipstick Plant (or Aeschynanthus radicans) Lipstick plant is a wonderful addition for plant enthusiasts who want a touch of tropical charm without the high maintenance. It is a stunning tropical houseplant admired for its vibrant red, lipstick-like flowers and glossy green leaves. It is an ideal plant for hanging planters or planters on shelves, thereby bringing a vibrant tropical charm to your homes and spaces.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you grow and care for this lovely plant.
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Guide to Indoor Plants For Beginners,
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Why is the Lipstick Plant so Popular? What’s Special about it?
The Lipstick Plant (Aeschynanthus radicans), as I said, is a captivating choice for veteran plant enthusiasts and beginners alike, offering both beauty and easy care.
With its trailing vines, its glossy, green leaves, and striking blooms, the Lipstick Plant makes for an eye-catching indoor plant, especially in hanging baskets or as a cascading table display. If you’re looking to brighten up your living area or office, the Lipstick Plant is an ideal option, bringing a touch of the tropics indoors while being relatively low-maintenance.
Origin and History of the Lipstick Plant
The Lipstick Plant is native to Southeast Asia – where it thrives in the warm and humid environments of tropical forests. It belongs to the Gesneriaceae family, which includes other popular ornamental plants.
The plant grows naturally as an epiphyte, meaning it often attaches itself to trees and derives moisture and nutrients from the air and rain, rather than the soil.
The plant became popular as an ornamental houseplant in the late 20th century, when interest in exotic indoor plants started growing. Its stunning blooms, combined with its easy-to-care-for nature, made it a favorite among plant enthusiasts and indoor gardeners. The lipstick plant has since gained popularity worldwide, especially in the U.S., Europe, and Asia, for its decorative appeal in homes and offices.
These days its popularity is booming in India as well. The tropical charm of the plant has infected Indian gardening enthusiasts and home decor enthusiasts alike.
Fun Facts About the Lipstick Plant
- Natural Air Purifier: Like many other houseplants, the Lipstick Plant helps to improve indoor air quality by absorbing pollutants and releasing oxygen, making it a practical as well as a beautiful addition to any room.
- Epiphytic Nature: In its natural habitat, the Lipstick Plant grows as an epiphyte. It attaches itself to tree branches and derives nutrients and moisture from the air, rather than from soil. This adaptability allows it to thrive in different indoor conditions.
Related reads: Choose Your Indoor Plant Pots Wisely – 8 Different Types
Guide to Indoor Plants For Beginners,
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Best Houseplants Pots and Planters Sizes & Styles!
The Lipstick Plant Care Guide
Light Requirements
Lipstick Plants thrive in bright, indirect light. Too little light can result in fewer flowers, while too much direct sunlight may scorch the leaves.
- Ideal Location: Place it near a north or east-facing window for optimal light exposure.
- Supplementary Lighting: In low-light environments, consider using a grow light to ensure it receives adequate brightness.
Pro Tip: Avoid placing the plant in direct midday sun, as it can damage the foliage.
Watering Needs
Watering is crucial for the health of the Lipstick Plant, but overwatering can lead to root rot. The plant prefers a moderate watering schedule, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
- Watering Schedule: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
- Water Quality: Use room-temperature water. Avoid using cold or chlorinated water.
Tip: During the growing season (spring and summer), you may need to water more frequently, while in winter, reduce the frequency.
Watering Needs
Watering is crucial for the health of the Lipstick Plant, but overwatering can lead to root rot. The plant prefers a moderate watering schedule, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
- Watering Schedule: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
- Water Quality: Use room-temperature water. Avoid using cold or chlorinated water.
Tip: During the growing season (spring and summer), you may need to water more frequently, while in winter, reduce the frequency.
Soil and Potting
Lipstick Plants prefer well-draining soil that retains some moisture but does not stay soggy.
- Soil Mix: Use a peat-based potting mix with added perlite or orchid bark to enhance drainage.
- Repotting: Repot every two to three years to refresh the soil and provide room for growth. Choose a pot that is one size larger than the current one.
Suggestion: A hanging basket is an ideal container for this plant, allowing its vines to cascade gracefully.
Fertilizing
Regular feeding encourages healthy growth and promotes flowering.
- Frequency: Fertilize every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength.
- Winter Feeding: Reduce feeding frequency during winter, as the plant’s growth slows.
Tip: Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can cause nutrient burn.
Pruning and Maintenance
Pruning helps maintain the plant’s shape and encourages bushier growth.
- Pruning Time: Trim the plant after it finishes blooming. Remove any dead or yellowing leaves.
- Propagation: Use the cuttings from pruning to propagate new plants. Place the cuttings in water or moist soil until roots form.
Maintenance: Wipe the leaves with a damp cloth occasionally to remove dust and improve light absorption.
Common Problems and Solutions
- Yellowing Leaves: Often a sign of overwatering. Allow the soil to dry out more between waterings.
- Wilting or Dropping Leaves: May indicate underwatering or low humidity. Increase humidity levels and adjust the watering schedule.
- No Blooms: Insufficient light can prevent the Lipstick Plant from flowering. Move it to a brighter spot or provide supplemental lighting.
Pest Control
Lipstick Plants can occasionally attract pests like aphids, spider mites, or mealybugs.
- Prevention: Keep the plant clean and inspect it regularly.
- Treatment: If pests are present, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Propagation
Lipstick Plants can be propagated using stem cuttings.
- Select a Healthy Stem: Choose a 4-6 inch cutting with at least two leaf nodes.
- Place in Water or Soil: You can root the cutting in a glass of water or plant it directly in moist soil.
- Provide Humidity: Cover the cutting with a plastic bag to create a mini greenhouse effect, ensuring it receives sufficient humidity.
Roots typically form within a few weeks, after which the cutting can be potted into its own container.
What are the Common Varieties of the Lipstick Plant?
The Lipstick Plant (Aeschynanthus radicans) comes in a few popular varieties, each bringing a unique charm to indoor gardens. The classic Aeschynanthus radicans is the most widely known, with its vibrant red flowers that resemble a tube of lipstick.
Aeschynanthus ‘Mona Lisa’ is another well-loved variety, boasting larger flowers and slightly more abundant blooms, making it ideal for those who want a more striking display.
For a subtle twist, Aeschynanthus longicaulis, also known as the ‘Black Pagoda,’ features darker, mottled foliage with deep red blooms, providing a beautiful contrast.
These varieties differ slightly in appearance but share similar care needs, making them all suitable for plant lovers who enjoy a little variety in their collections.
Benefits of Growing a Lipstick Plant
- Air Purification: Like many houseplants, the Lipstick Plant helps to purify indoor air by absorbing toxins.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Its cascading growth habit and vivid flowers make it a perfect choice for hanging baskets, adding visual interest to indoor spaces.
- Easy to Care For: With the right conditions, Lipstick Plants are low-maintenance and can thrive indoors for many years.
Related reads: Choose Your Indoor Plant Pots Wisely – 8 Different Types
Guide to Indoor Plants For Beginners,
10 Hard to Kill Indoor Plants for Busy People,
20 Low Maintenance Plants for Indian Gardens,
Best Houseplants Pots and Planters Sizes & Styles!
Decor Ideas for the Lipstick Plant
The Lipstick Plant’s trailing vines and bold flowers make it an excellent addition to home decor.
Hanging baskets are one of the most popular ways to display this plant, allowing the vines to cascade gracefully.
Another creative approach is to use wall-mounted planters, which can turn an empty wall into a lush green focal point.
For tabletops, decorative pots that complement the interior design can be used, adding a pop of color to side tables or shelves.
Pairing the Lipstick Plant with other trailing plants, such as pothos or ivy, can create a stunning “green curtain” effect.
Incorporating various heights with tiered plant stands is also a great way to give this plant a stylish and dynamic look in any room.
Cost Estimation in India & Around the World
The price of the Lipstick Plant varies depending on the region, the size of the plant, and whether it’s a cutting or a fully established plant:
India: In India, the Lipstick Plant is available for approximately ₹400 to ₹1,500. The price can vary based on factors such as pot size and the age/ growth of the plant.
In other places around the world:
United States: The cost typically ranges between $15 to $30 for a potted plant.
Europe: Prices may range from €10 to €25, depending on the plant size and variety.
Where to Find and Get the Lipstick Plant
Local nurseries and gardening stores often carry this plant, especially those that specialize in tropical or exotic species.
Apart from the local gardeners and nurseries, the Lipstick Plant is readily available in many plant nurseries, garden centers, and online stores. In India, some popular online platforms where you can find the Lipstick Plant include:
- Ugaoo (https://www.ugaoo.com): Offers a variety of indoor plants, including the Lipstick Plant, delivered across the country.
- Nurserylive (https://nurserylive.com): A popular online nursery that provides different indoor plants for home decor.
- Amazon India (https://www.amazon.in): Offers potted Lipstick Plants from various sellers.
Can You Grow the Lipstick Plant from Seedlings?
Yes, it is absolutely possible to grow the Lipstick Plant from seedlings at home by yourself, though it’s more common to propagate it through stem cuttings if you already have it.
Growing plants from seedlings is a good option for people who don’t have local nurseries, or don’t have the plant they want from either local or online gardeners and shops. Or they don’t have the budget or delivery option.
Propagation is an excellent option for those people who already have the Lipstick plant in their homes. However, if you don’t have it or have access to it then growing the Lipstick plant from seeds is a good option if you have the time and patience for it.
If you don’t have the time and patience for growing the plant from seeds then the next best option would be to get from local or online gardeners.
If starting from seedlings, ensure they are placed in a warm, humid environment with bright but indirect light, which copies their natural tropical habitat. It may take a longer time for seedlings to grow into a mature, flowering plant compared to propagation by cuttings.
Best Season to Grow the Lipstick Plant In
The best time to start growing or propagating the Lipstick Plant is during the spring or early summer, as this is its active growing season. The warm temperatures and increased humidity during these months promote faster growth and encourage blooming.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Care for the Lipstick Plant
Caring for a Lipstick Plant indoors versus outdoors requires some adjustments.
Indoors, the plant thrives in bright, indirect light, such as near an east-facing window. The controlled temperature and humidity of the home can be ideal, but it’s important to maintain higher humidity levels, especially during dry seasons, by misting the plant regularly or using a humidifier.
Outdoors, the Lipstick Plant can be grown in a shaded spot where it’s protected from direct sun, which can scorch the leaves. It should also be sheltered from strong winds and heavy rain. In warmer climates, this plant can be grown outdoors year-round, while in cooler regions, it’s best treated as a houseplant and brought indoors when temperatures drop below 60°F (15°C).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How often does a Lipstick Plant bloom?
The Lipstick Plant can bloom multiple times a year, especially if provided with the right care. Each flowering period lasts for several weeks.
2. Is the Lipstick Plant toxic to pets?
The Lipstick Plant is considered non-toxic to cats and dogs, making it a pet-friendly houseplant.
3. Can I grow a Lipstick Plant outdoors?
Yes, it can be grown outdoors in tropical and subtropical regions. However, in colder climates, it should be brought indoors during winter.
