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Lipstick Plant

Aeschynanthus radicans

houseplant

verifiedReviewed by the GreenScout Team

A trailing epiphytic plant with glossy, dark green leaves and striking tubular red flowers that emerge from deep burgundy calyces resembling lipstick tubes. This tropical plant thrives in warm, humid conditions and cascades beautifully from hanging baskets. It's prized for its exotic, long-lasting blooms.

Common Problems

Select the problem your Lipstick Plant is experiencing to get a treatment guide.

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Dropping Leaveschevron_right

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Wiltingchevron_right

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Brown Tipschevron_right

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Pale Leaveschevron_right

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Underwateringchevron_right

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Slow Growthchevron_right

Care Guide

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Light

Bright, indirect light; needs 4–6 hours of indirect sun daily to produce flowers. Too little light reduces blooming

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Water

Keep soil consistently moist but well-draining during growing season; reduce watering in winter. Avoid waterlogging

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Soil

Loose, well-draining mix with orchid bark, perlite, and peat moss; mimics natural epiphytic conditions

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Fertiliser

Feed every 2 weeks during growing season with diluted flowering fertilizer; reduce to monthly or stop in winter

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Temperature

Prefers warm conditions 65–75°F (18–24°C); avoid cold below 60°F (15°C) and temperature fluctuations

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Humidity

Requires high humidity (60–80%); mist regularly, use pebble trays, or place near a humidifier

Toxicity

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Non-toxic to cats, dogs, and children; safe for all households

Common Diseases

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Common Pests

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Seasonal Care

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Resume regular watering and feeding as growth picks up.

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Peak growing season. Water and feed regularly.

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Reduce watering as growth slows. Stop heavy feeding.

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Minimal watering and feeding. Protect from frost if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why hasn't my Lipstick Plant produced its tubular red flowers?

Flowering depends on bright indirect light (4–6 hours daily) and high humidity. Without enough light, the plant tends to stay leafy and vining without setting buds.

Why are the burgundy calyces on my Lipstick Plant not opening into flowers?

The dark red "lipstick" tube is the calyx, and the actual red flower emerges from inside it over time. If calyxes are forming but not opening, give it a bit more time and consistent warmth and humidity.