Lipstick plant care guide
Aeschynanthus
Also known as: Lipstick vine, Aeschynanthus radicans
Pets and children
We haven't been able to confirm how this plant affects pets or small children. If any is eaten, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
How often to water Lipstick plant
- Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
- Every 5 days
- The leaves are somewhat fleshy, so as a guide water thoroughly a day or two after the topsoil dries, and mist about daily.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov)
- Every 7 days
- Water about two to three days after the soil dries; slightly drier conditions encourage flower buds.
- Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Every 10 days
- Water sparingly about three to four days after the soil dries, and avoid cold water.
Light and placement for Lipstick plant
Bright light through a sheer curtain is generally right; it needs decent light to flower, but midsummer direct sun scorches the leaves, and it does well in a hanging pot with good airflow.
Overwintering Lipstick plant
Overwintering guide: 10°C (50°F) or above
Tender to cold: overwinter it indoors at about 10°C, away from cold windowpanes and heater draft, with sparing watering; near 5°C it drops its leaves.
Fertilizing and repotting Lipstick plant
Fertilizer
Diluted liquid feed about every two weeks from May to September, easing off once flower buds form and stopping in winter.
When to repot
Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
Common problems with Lipstick plant
- Overwatering rots the roots and the leaves yellow and drop.
- Winter cold and drafts make the leaves wilt and fall.
- Moving the plant after buds have formed makes the buds drop.
Tips for growing Lipstick plant
- Slightly pot-bound roots and a drier spell in autumn encourage flower buds.
- After flowering, cut the trailing stems back by about a third to keep the shape and add branches.
- Cuttings with a node root easily.
These are AI-generated general guidelines. They vary with the variety, the placement and the pot size. For effects on pets or children, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
Keep your plant log going
Greenery is a free app that keeps your plant care going, with watering reminders and photo records. Available on iOS and Android.
