How to Grow Lipstick Plant
Wikimedia Commons
Lipstick Plant
Aeschynanthus lobbianus
flowerA tropical epiphytic plant native to Southeast Asia, known for its striking tubular flowers that resemble a tube of lipstick. The plant features glossy, dark green leaves and produces clusters of bright red or orange flowers that emerge from burgundy calyces. It thrives as a hanging basket plant indoors and prefers warm, humid conditions.
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Example Lipstick Plant timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Lipstick Plant
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Lipstick Plant blooms
Mid-to-late summerBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →USDA zones 10b-11; grown as houseplant in cooler climates
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Get my Lipstick Plant timeline →Growth Stages
Propagation/Rooting
3-4 weeksStem cuttings develop roots in water or moist propagation medium; small leaf nodes form along stems
Keep in warm (70-75°F), humid environment; change water every 3-4 days if water propagating; maintain bright, indirect light
Establishment
4-6 weeksYoung rooted plants develop new leaf growth and begin establishing a root system in soil medium
Pot into well-draining epiphytic mix; maintain consistent moisture and high humidity; avoid fertilizing yet; keep warm
Vegetative Growth
3-6 monthsPlant develops trailing vines with glossy, dark green oval leaves; stems lengthen and branch
Provide bright, indirect light; maintain warm temperatures (65-75°F); water when top 1 inch of soil is dry; fertilize monthly with diluted balanced or flowering fertilizer
Budding
2-4 weeksBurgundy calyces form at branch tips, containing tightly closed flower buds
Maintain bright light and warm temperatures; reduce watering slightly to encourage flowering; do not move plant abruptly; high humidity is critical
Flowering
2-3 weeks per bloom cycle; can flower multiple times yearlyTubular red, orange, or bicolor flowers emerge from burgundy calyces; blooms typically last 2-3 weeks per flush
Maintain temperatures 65-75°F; continue regular watering and misting; avoid moving plant or changing light conditions; fertilize with flowering formula every 2 weeks
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; isolate infected plant; wipe leaves with alcohol-soaked cotton swab; repeat every 7-10 days
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Increase humidity through frequent misting; spray with water to dislodge; use miticide or neem oil if severe; ensure consistent moisture
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Remove manually with soft brush; treat with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap; repeat applications every 7-14 days
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Use yellow sticky traps; spray with insecticidal soap; improve air circulation; neem oil effective but test on small area first
Uses
Indoor Hanging Display
OrnamentalThe lipstick plant's trailing growth habit and showy flowers make it an ideal specimen for hanging baskets and elevated shelving indoors. Its exotic appearance adds tropical flair to homes and offices. [source]
Floral Arrangements & Corsages
CraftThe striking red and burgundy tubular flowers can be used in tropical floral arrangements and special occasion corsages. Flowers have good longevity once cut. [source]
Hummingbird Attraction
WildlifeIn tropical and subtropical gardens where lipstick plants are grown outdoors, the tubular flowers attract hummingbirds and other nectar-feeding birds. [source]
Air Quality & Interior Decoration
HouseholdLike many tropical houseplants, Aeschynanthus contributes to indoor air quality while providing long-term visual interest with seasonal blooming cycles. [source]
Traditional Ethnobotany
MedicinalIn Southeast Asian traditional medicine, various Aeschynanthus species have been used in herbal preparations, though scientific validation of specific health claims remains limited. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
This is an ornamental flowering plant, not harvested for produce. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage additional blooming. Cut back long vines in spring to promote branching and fuller plant shape. Propagate from healthy stem cuttings year-round, preferably in spring or early summer.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The common name 'Lipstick Plant' comes from the flower's resemblance to a tube of lipstick, with the burgundy calyx looking like the tube and the bright red flower emerging like the lipstick itself.
- 🌱 Aeschynanthus lobbianus is an epiphytic plant in nature, meaning it grows on tree branches in tropical rainforests rather than in soil, which is why it prefers loose, bark-based growing media.
- 🌱 The genus Aeschynanthus contains over 150 species, many with equally striking flowers, and several are popular houseplants; the name derives from Greek words meaning 'ugly flower,' likely referring to the unusual tubular shape.
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