Lipstick Plant

Aeschynanthus radicansAlso known as: Lipstick Vine, Basket Vine, Red Bugle Vine

The Lipstick Plant is a stunning trailing houseplant native to Malaysian rainforests, named for its tubular red flowers that emerge from dark burgundy calyxes like lipstick from a tube. With cascading vines reaching 2-3 feet (60-90 cm), it's perfect for hanging baskets and creates a spectacular display when in bloom.

Moderate Care

Bright Indirect Light

Perennial

Quick Care Summary

Light
Bright Indirect Light

Temperature Range
60-85°F (16-29°C)

Ideal Temp
72°F (22°C)

Pet Safe

This plant is non-toxic to cats and dogs. While it's safe to have around pets, ingestion of any plant material may still cause mild stomach upset.

Seasonal Care Schedule

Adjust your care routine based on the season for optimal plant health.

Watering Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Every 5-7 days, when top inch (2.5 cm) is dry
Summer	Every 4-5 days, keep consistently moist
Fall	Every 7-10 days
Winter	Every 10-14 days, slightly drier

Prefers consistent moisture but not soggy. Yellow leaves indicate overwatering; crispy leaves mean underwatering.

Misting Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	2-3 times per week
Summer	Daily in dry conditions
Fall	2-3 times per week
Winter	2-3 times per week, combat dry indoor air

Loves high humidity. Consider a humidifier or pebble tray for best results.

Fertilizing Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Every 2 weeks with balanced liquid fertilizer
Summer	Every 2 weeks during active growth
Fall	Monthly
Winter	No fertilizing

Needs regular feeding to bloom. High phosphorus fertilizer encourages flowers.

Pruning

Frequency: After flowering or as needed

Best Season: Spring

Prune after flowering to encourage bushy growth. Cut back leggy stems to promote branching.

Repotting

Frequency: Every 2-3 years

Best Season: Spring

Slightly rootbound plants bloom better. Use well-draining potting mix with peat and perlite.

Flowering

Season
Summer to fall, can bloom repeatedly

Color
Bright red tubular flowers

Flowers emerge from dark maroon calyxes, looking like lipstick tubes. Each flower lasts several weeks.

Propagation Methods

Stem cuttings with at least 2 nodes
Root in water or moist soil
Best taken in spring or summer

Common Problems

No flowers: Insufficient light or needs a cool winter rest period
Dropping leaves: Cold drafts, overwatering, or sudden environmental changes
Leggy growth: Not enough light - move to brighter spot
Brown leaf edges: Low humidity

Pro Tips

A cool period (55-65F/13-18C) for a few weeks in winter encourages spring blooming
Bright light is key to flowering - morning sun is ideal
Keep away from cold drafts and heating vents
Trailing vines can reach 3+ feet - perfect for high shelves or hanging baskets