Lipstick Plant - Aeschynanthus Houseplant
The Lipstick Plant (Aeschynanthus) is a striking tropical epiphyte that brings vibrant color and unique texture to any indoor space. Named for its distinctive reddish-orange flowers that emerge from dark burgundy buds resembling lipstick tubes, this houseplant offers both visual interest and easy-care appeal.
Plant Characteristics
This tropical epiphyte features thick, waxy leaves that cascade gracefully along vine-like stems, making it an excellent choice for hanging baskets and elevated planters. The glossy foliage provides year-round appeal, while the spectacular tubular flowers appear in early spring, rewarding patient growers with a stunning floral display. The waxy leaf coating helps the plant retain moisture, contributing to its low-maintenance nature.
Growth Habit and Display
As a vining plant, the Lipstick Plant develops trailing stems that can extend several feet in length, creating a lush cascading effect. The epiphytic nature means it naturally grows on other plants in its native habitat, making it well-adapted to container growing with well-draining soil. The thick stems support clusters of waxy leaves, creating a full, textured appearance that fills out hanging containers beautifully.
Flowering Season
The most remarkable feature of the Aeschynanthus is its unique flowering display around early spring. The reddish-orange tubular flowers emerge from dark calyxes, creating a striking contrast against the glossy green foliage. These blooms attract attention and add a tropical feel to indoor environments during the blooming period.
Care Requirements
The Lipstick Plant is beginner-friendly and thrives with minimal intervention. As a tropical epiphyte, it prefers bright indirect light and moderate humidity levels. The waxy leaves indicate its ability to tolerate some neglect between waterings. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings, and provide adequate drainage to prevent root issues. This plant adapts well to typical indoor temperatures and humidity levels.
Ideal Placement
Position your Lipstick Plant in a hanging basket or on a high shelf where its trailing stems can cascade freely. The vining growth habit makes it perfect for adding vertical interest to empty corners or creating living curtains near windows. Bright, filtered light will encourage the best growth and promote flowering in spring.
Product Specifications
-
Botanical Name: Aeschynanthus
-
Common Names: Lipstick plant
-
Description: The lipstick plant is a tropical epiphyte with thick waxy leaves which run along it's vine like stems. This plant will reward you with very unique reddish orange flowers around early spring.
