Growing Lipstick Plants: A Complete Guide

If you're looking for a unique and eye-catching houseplant, look no further than the lipstick plant. These tropical vines produce stunning blooms in shades of red, pink, and orange that resemble tubes of lipstick – hence the name! While they may seem intimidating to grow at first, with a little care and attention, you can easily cultivate your own beautiful lipstick plant collection. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about growing lipstick plants.

What are Lipstick Plants?

Lipstick plants (Aeschynanthus spp.) are native to Southeast Asia and belong to the Gesneriaceae family. These epiphytic plants are often found growing on trees in their natural habitat, which makes them ideal for growing indoors in hanging baskets. They have long, trailing stems with glossy green leaves and produce clusters of tubular flowers in vibrant shades of red, pink, and orange. The flowers emerge from dark maroon buds, adding even more interest to the plant's overall appearance.

Choosing the Right Potting Mix

One of the most important things to consider when growing lipstick plants is choosing the right potting mix. Since these plants are epiphytes, they don't require soil to grow. Instead, they prefer well-draining mixes that mimic the conditions of their natural habitat. A good mix for lipstick plants should contain ingredients like perlite, sphagnum peat moss, and orchid bark. Avoid using heavy potting soils, as they can retain too much moisture and lead to root rot.

Light and Temperature Requirements

In order to thrive, lipstick plants require bright, indirect light. They do best in areas with partial shade or filtered light, as direct sunlight can scorch their leaves. In terms of temperature, lipstick plants prefer warm, humid conditions. They can tolerate temperatures between 60-80°F but cannot survive below 50°F. If you live in a dry climate, consider using a humidifier or placing a tray of water near your plants to increase humidity levels.

Watering and Fertilizing

When it comes to watering your lipstick plants, it's important to strike a balance between keeping the soil moist and avoiding overwatering. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can cause the leaves to wilt and drop off. As a general rule, water your lipstick plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Be sure to allow excess water to drain away from the pot to prevent waterlogging.

Fertilizing your lipstick plants every 4-6 weeks can also help keep them healthy and blooming. Choose a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer and apply according to the package instructions. Be sure not to over-fertilize, as this can damage your plants.

Propagation

If you want to propagate your lipstick plants, the easiest way is through stem cuttings. Cut a 4-6 inch stem tip just below a node and remove the lower leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in a pot filled with moist potting mix. Place the pot in a warm, humid location and mist the cutting regularly until new growth appears. Once roots have formed, move the new plant to its permanent home.

Pests and Diseases

Lipstick plants are relatively pest and disease-free, but they can still fall victim to common houseplant pests like mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. Inspect your plants regularly for signs of infestation, such as yellowing leaves or sticky residue. If you do notice pests, isolate the affected plant and treat it immediately with an organic insecticide or a soapy water solution. Avoid using pesticides that could harm beneficial insects like bees and butterflies.

A lipstick plant in a pot in a living room.

Caring for Your Lipstick Plants

With their stunning blooms and unique appearance, lipstick plants make excellent additions to any indoor plant collection. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can ensure that your lipstick plants remain healthy and beautiful year-round. Remember to choose a well-draining potting mix, provide bright, indirect light, and water and fertilize regularly. With a little love and attention, your lipstick plants will thrive and bloom for years to come.

Lipstick plants, indoor plants, houseplants, gardening, plant care, propagation, epiphytes