How to Grow Lipstick Plant
Wikimedia Commons
Lipstick Plant
Aeschynanthus speciosus
flowerThe Lipstick Plant is a tropical trailing houseplant known for its striking tubular flowers that emerge from dark burgundy calyces, resembling a tube of lipstick. Native to Southeast Asia, this epiphytic plant features glossy, dark green leaves and produces vibrant red, orange, or yellow blooms. It thrives as an indoor ornamental and makes an excellent choice for hanging baskets and high shelves.
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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)
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 →Zones 10b-12; best grown as a houseplant in cooler climates
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Get my Lipstick Plant timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
4-6 weeksNew plant settling in with initial root development and leaf acclimation to its environment
Maintain consistent moisture and humidity (60-80%); avoid moving frequently; provide bright, indirect light; keep away from cold drafts
Vegetative Growth
4-8 monthsRapid leaf and stem development; plant produces new trailing stems with glossy green foliage
Apply balanced, diluted fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during growing season; pinch back stems to encourage bushier growth; maintain high humidity with pebble trays or misting
Pre-Flowering
2-4 weeksPlant develops flower buds and shifts energy toward reproduction; buds visible at stem tips within dark burgundy calyces
Reduce nitrogen fertilizer and apply phosphorus-rich fertilizer; maintain consistent watering; keep temperature between 60-75°F for optimal bud set; ensure 12-hour periods of darkness to encourage blooming
Flowering
4-8 weeksVibrant tubular flowers (red, orange, or yellow depending on variety) emerge from lipstick-like calyces; blooms may last several weeks
Maintain humidity and bright light; continue moderate fertilizing; avoid relocating plant; deadhead spent flowers to encourage continued blooming; do not overwater
Post-Bloom Rest
2-3 monthsFlowers fade; plant enters dormant or semi-dormant period with slower growth
Reduce watering and fertilizing; lower temperatures (55-65°F) help trigger next blooming cycle; prune overgrown stems; maintain good air circulation
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with 70% isopropyl alcohol or insecticidal soap; isolate infected plant; check foliage weekly; repeat treatment every 7-10 days
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Increase humidity to discourage; spray with neem oil or miticide; mist foliage regularly; remove heavily infested leaves
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Use sticky traps; spray with insecticidal soap; maintain good air circulation; isolate affected plants
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Ensure well-draining soil; avoid overwatering; repot if roots are blackened; use sterilized soil and containers; improve air circulation
Uses
Non-edible ornamental
CulinaryWhile not edible, the vibrant flowers are popular in tropical floral arrangements and interior design displays. The plant adds visual interest and exotic appeal to living spaces. [source]
Interior decoration and air purification
HouseholdExcellent for hanging baskets, shelves, and tropical plant collections; trailing growth habit makes it ideal for vertical gardening. The plant helps purify indoor air while adding aesthetic beauty. [source]
Cut flower arrangements
CraftStunning tubular blooms are valued in tropical and exotic floral arrangements for weddings, events, and home décor. Individual flowers last several weeks when properly conditioned. [source]
Hummingbird and pollinator attraction
WildlifeIn tropical outdoor settings, the tubular red and orange flowers attract hummingbirds and nectar-feeding birds. The shape and color are specifically adapted to bird pollination. [source]
Traditional Asian ethnobotany
MedicinalIn Southeast Asia, Aeschynanthus species have been used in traditional medicine for various ailments, though scientific evidence is limited. Not commonly used medicinally in Western herbalism. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Lipstick Plants are ornamentals grown for flowers rather than harvest. Cut stems for floral arrangements when blooms are fully open; cuttings can be propagated in moist soil or water (root in 2-3 weeks). Remove spent flowers to encourage extended blooming.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The plant's common name 'Lipstick Plant' refers to the distinctive way the tubular flower emerges from the dark burgundy calyx, resembling a tube of lipstick being extended from its case.
- 🌱 Aeschynanthus is an epiphytic plant in nature, meaning it grows on trees in tropical rainforests rather than in soil, which is why it prefers orchid bark and loose, well-draining growing media.
- 🌱 Different Aeschynanthus species produce flowers in various colors—while A. speciosus is typically red to orange, other species in the genus bloom in pink, purple, yellow, and bicolor combinations.
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