Lipstick Plant
aeschynanthus longicaulis
Also known as: ["Aeschynanthus longicaulis","Lipstick Vine"]
Overview
A trailing epiphytic plant with dark green leaves and tubular red flowers that resemble lipstick tubes.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","pet-friendly","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Gesneriaceae |
| Genus: | Aeschynanthus |
| Botanical Name: | Aeschynanthus longicaulis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor hanging basket or shelf with bright, indirect light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"16–27°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry environments, less often in humid climates
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with perlite or orchid bark for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Every 2–3 months or as needed to control size.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, focusing on selective trimming.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light, protect from intense sun to prevent leaf burn, adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderateeasy
Sunlight
bright indirect light, partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct light; avoid south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, peat-based potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–6.5).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Ideal range 65–80°F (18–27°C); prefers stable temperatures, sensitive to drafts and extreme fluctuations.
Avoid placing near vents or windows with extreme temperature shifts; maintain consistent room temperature.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during growing season, monthly in spring and fall, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, place in medium, keep moist, wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light with consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix or water with occasional nutrient additions.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, container, water or soil medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Remove leggy growth, encourage bushier habit, and maintain shape.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, prune selectively, remove dead/damaged growth, shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (1–2 inches wider in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; promotes fresh soil and growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, use fresh soil, water sparingly post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure even saturation, allow excess water to drain, water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot. Adjust based on humidity and temperature.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, orchid bark, or coarse sand to improve drainage; mix in compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, wilting, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root rot due to reduced water uptake.
Solution: Move to a warmer spot, avoid cold drafts, ensure proper watering, and use a heat mat if necessary.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently, and ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute correctly, apply to moist soil, avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAeschynanthus longicaulis is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion by felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicAeschynanthus longicaulis is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion by canines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicAeschynanthus longicaulis is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption, though it is not typically consumed as a food source.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water my Lipstick Plant?
A: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, typically every 7-10 days, depending on conditions.
Q: Why are the leaves of my Lipstick Plant turning yellow?
A: Yellow leaves can indicate overwatering, underwatering, or low light conditions.
Q: Does the Lipstick Plant require a specific type of soil?
A: Use a well-draining potting mix, such as one formulated for orchids or epiphytes, to prevent root rot.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Gesneriaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright indirect light, partial |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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