How to Grow Lipstick Plant
Wikimedia Commons
Lipstick Plant
Aeschynanthus longicaulis
flowerThe Lipstick Plant is a trailing tropical houseplant known for its striking tubular flowers that resemble a tube of bright red lipstick emerging from dark burgundy calyces. Native to Southeast Asia, it thrives as an indoor specimen in hanging baskets and produces glossy, dark green foliage that complements its vibrant blooms.
When should you plant Lipstick Plant in your zone?
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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
Around Aug 15≈ 120 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Lipstick Plant dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in USDA zones 10-11; best grown indoors in cooler climates
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Get my Lipstick Plant timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
4-6 weeksPlant produces new root growth and adapts to pot environment. Foliage is healthy and dark green.
Water moderately, provide bright indirect light, maintain high humidity. Avoid fertilizing for first 4-6 weeks.
Vegetative Growth
8-12 weeksLong trailing stems with pairs of glossy, leathery leaves develop. Plant fills out and becomes fuller.
Continue consistent moisture and humidity. Fertilize every 2-3 weeks with diluted houseplant or orchid fertilizer. Pinch stem tips to encourage branching.
Budding
3-4 weeksTight flower buds form at stem ends, typically in clusters. Buds appear dark red or burgundy before opening.
Maintain consistent conditions; avoid moving plant or changing light. Do not overwater. Bud drop occurs if humidity drops below 40% or temperatures fluctuate.
Flowering
4-8 weeks (repeat cycles possible)Bright red tubular flowers emerge from burgundy calyces, resembling lipstick tubes. Flowers are fragrant and attract hummingbirds and pollinators.
Maintain high humidity and bright light. Continue watering when soil surface dries slightly. Do not fertilize heavily or buds may drop.
Rest/Post-flowering
4-8 weeksFlowers fade and drop. Plant enters dormancy period with reduced growth.
Reduce watering frequency. Provide cooler temperatures (60-70°F) to trigger flowering cycle. Fertilize minimally. Prune trailing stems as desired.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with horticultural oil or neem oil every 7-10 days. Isolate affected plant. Prune heavily infested stems.
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Increase humidity to 60-70%. Spray with water to dislodge. Use miticide if severe. Improve air circulation.
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Remove manually with alcohol-soaked cotton swab. Spray with horticultural oil weekly until cleared.
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Allow soil surface to dry between waterings. Use gnat traps. Apply diatomaceous earth to soil surface.
Uses
Indoor Hanging Basket Specimen
HouseholdThe Lipstick Plant is an excellent trailing houseplant for hanging baskets, shelves, or macramé hangers. Its cascading stems and vibrant red flowers add tropical ambiance to any interior space. [source]
Hummingbird Attraction
WildlifeThe tubular, nectar-rich flowers attract hummingbirds and are well-suited for hummingbird-friendly indoor or conservatory gardens. [source]
Floral Arrangements
CraftThe striking red flowers can be cut and used in small fresh flower arrangements or as unique botanical specimens for floral design. [source]
Humidity-Loving Terrarium Plant
HouseholdLipstick Plants thrive in humid enclosed environments like terrariums, glass cabinets, or bathroom windows where moisture and warmth are naturally high. [source]
Harvest Tips
Lipstick Plants are ornamental and not harvested for food. Cut flowers can be enjoyed in small arrangements indoors. Prune trailing stems anytime during growing season to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Remove faded flowers to potentially extend blooming cycles.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The common name 'Lipstick Plant' refers to the way the bright red flowers emerge from dark red or burgundy calyces, resembling a tube of lipstick being pushed up from its case.
- 🌱 Aeschynanthus species are epiphytic plants in their native habitat, growing on tree branches and deriving nutrients from decaying organic matter rather than soil, which is why they prefer airy, orchid-like growing media.
- 🌱 The flowers are pollinated by sunbirds and hummingbirds in their native Southeast Asian rainforests, and they will occasionally bloom indoors if provided with proper high humidity and bright light conditions.
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