Aeschynanthus Radicans | Aeschynanthus | Gesneriaceae

Aeschynanthus radicans - Lipstick Plant or Lipstick Vine

What is Aeschynanthus radicans?

Aeschynanthus radicans, also known as Lipstick Plant or Lipstick Vine, is a tropical epiphyte that is a popular houseplant. Its name comes from the Greek word auschune, meaning "shame" or "modesty," referring to the flowers hiding inside the tube-like calyx before blooming.

This plant is native to the humid tropics of the Malay Peninsula south to Java and grows as an epiphyte or lithophyte. It has slender, trailing, and arching stems that can reach up to 3 feet long. The leaves are glossy, dark green, and oval-shaped with a pointed tip. The undersides of the leaves often have a deep burgundy color.

The most striking feature of the Lipstick Plant is its bright red tubular flowers that emerge from black calyxes. The flowers bloom in waves, and each bloom can last for several weeks. The plant can also produce orange-red flowers, as seen in the Aeschynanthus radicans 'Mona Lisa' variety.

To care for your Lipstick Plant, place it in bright, indirect light and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. The plant prefers high humidity, so misting the leaves regularly or using a humidifier can help it thrive. Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.

The Lipstick Plant is a great addition to any indoor garden, adding a pop of color and tropical flair. Its trailing stems make it suitable for hanging baskets or training up a trellis. With proper care, your Lipstick Plant can bloom year-round and bring joy to your home.

Characteristics of Aeschynanthus radicans

Aeschynanthus radicans, also known as Lipstick Plant or Lipstick Vine, is a tropical epiphyte that is a popular houseplant. Its name comes from the Greek word auschune, meaning "shame" or "modesty," referring to the flowers hiding behind the foliage.

This plant is native to the humid tropics of the Malay Peninsula south to Java, where it grows as an epiphytic or lithophytic plant. In its natural habitat, these evergreen plants grow as epiphytes on trees, with their long vines sprawling along moss-covered branches. However, they can also be grown in pots as houseplants.

The plant has cascading, shiny green leaves with burgundy undersides. The leaves are pointy and waxy, and the plant blooms with bright clusters of flowers. The flowers emerge from black calyxes with waves of bloom appearing throughout the year. The flowers are bright red tubular flowers, which is why the plant is called Lipstick Plant.

Aeschynanthus radicans is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care. It prefers bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. The plant should be watered regularly, but the soil should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering can cause root rot, so it is important not to let the plant sit in water.

The plant can be propagated by stem cuttings, which should be taken in the spring or summer. The cuttings should be placed in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist until they root.

Aeschynanthus radicans is a beautiful and low-maintenance plant that can add a pop of color to any room. It is perfect for beginners and experienced gardeners alike.

How to grow Aeschynanthus radicans

Aeschynanthus radicans, also known as Lipstick Plant or Lipstick Vine, is a tropical epiphyte that is a popular houseplant. Its name comes from the Greek word auschune, meaning "shame" or "modesty," referring to the flowers hiding behind the leaves.

This plant is native to the humid tropics of the Malay Peninsula south to Java, where it grows as an epiphytic or lithophytic plant. In its native rainforest habitat, these evergreen plants grow as epiphytes on trees, with their long vines sprawling along moss-covered branches.

The plant has cascading, shiny green leaves with burgundy undersides. Rich red flowers emerge from black calyxes with waves of bloom appearing throughout the year. The flowers are tubular and resemble a tube of lipstick, hence the common name.

Aeschynanthus radicans is an easy-to-care-for plant that thrives in bright, indirect light. It prefers well-draining soil and should be watered when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch. Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.

Propagation of Aeschynanthus radicans is easy, as it can be done through stem cuttings. Simply take a cutting of a healthy stem, remove the lower leaves, and place it in a pot with well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and in a warm, bright location until roots have formed.

Overall, Aeschynanthus radicans is a beautiful and low-maintenance plant that is perfect for adding a pop of color to any indoor space.

Common problems with Aeschynanthus radicans

Aeschynanthus radicans, also known as Lipstick Plant or Lipstick Vine, is a tropical epiphyte that is a popular houseplant. Its name comes from the Greek word auschune, meaning "shame" or "modesty," referring to the flowers hiding behind the leaves.

This plant is native to the humid tropics of the Malay Peninsula south to Java, where it grows as an epiphytic or lithophytic plant. In its natural habitat, it grows perched on trees, with its long vines sprawling along moss-covered branches. The plant has cascading, shiny green leaves with burgundy undersides, and rich red flowers emerge from black calyxes with waves of bloom appearing throughout the year.

The Lipstick Plant is an evergreen vine that can grow up to 3 feet long and is perfect for hanging baskets or trained to climb a trellis. It prefers bright, indirect light and well-draining soil that is kept moist but not soggy. The plant is sensitive to overwatering, so it's essential to let the soil dry out slightly between waterings.

When it comes to fertilizing, the Lipstick Plant is not a heavy feeder. Fertilize once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength. Pruning is also necessary to keep the plant looking neat and tidy. Pinch back the tips of the vines to encourage bushier growth.

The Lipstick Plant is a low-maintenance plant that is perfect for beginners. It's easy to care for and adds a pop of color to any room. With proper care, the plant can live for many years and continue to bloom throughout the year.