How to Grow Lipstick Plant
Wikimedia Commons
Lipstick Plant
Aeschynanthus marmoratus
flowerA trailing tropical houseplant prized for its distinctive red flowers that emerge from dark burgundy calyxes, resembling lipstick tubes. Native to Southeast Asia, it features attractive mottled green and burgundy foliage that complements its showy blooms. It thrives as a hanging basket plant in warm, humid indoor environments.
When should you plant Lipstick Plant in your zone?
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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 11-12; primarily grown as a houseplant or in warm greenhouses
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Get my Lipstick Plant timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
4-6 weeksYoung plant with small leaves and minimal trailing growth; plant adjusts to new environment
Maintain consistent warmth (65-75°F), high humidity, and gentle indirect light. Avoid moving frequently. Water carefully to avoid root rot.
Vegetative Growth
3-6 monthsStems elongate with increasing foliage production; mottled green and burgundy leaves develop fully
Maintain warm temperatures and humid conditions. Pinch back growing tips to encourage bushiness and branching. Apply balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-3 weeks.
Bud Formation
2-4 weeksDark burgundy tubular calyces form at stem tips; flower buds develop inside
Maintain temperatures between 70-75°F. Ensure bright indirect light. Continue regular feeding. Do not move plant or change conditions drastically.
Flowering
4-8 weeksBrilliant red tubular flowers emerge from burgundy calyces, resembling lipstick. Blooms persist for several weeks.
Maintain warmth and high humidity. Continue misting. Reduce fertilizer slightly. Provide ample bright indirect light to sustain blooms. Handle gently to avoid damaging flowers.
Post-Bloom & Rest
6-8 weeksFlowers fade and drop. Plant may enter semi-dormant period with slower growth
Reduce watering slightly and allow soil to dry more between waterings. Lower fertilizer frequency. Cooler temperatures (65-70°F) encourage reflowering. Prune spent stems to promote new growth.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; isolate affected plant; inspect regularly and remove with damp cotton swabs
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Increase humidity and misting; spray with water or horticultural oil; severe infestations may require acaricide treatment
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Remove manually with rubbing alcohol on cotton swab; treat with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap
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Use yellow sticky traps; spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; improve air circulation
Uses
Not edible
CulinaryAeschynanthus is ornamental only and not intended for consumption. It is not poisonous, but offers no culinary value. [source]
Interior decoration and air purification
HouseholdLipstick plant is prized as a decorative houseplant in hanging baskets, terrariums, and indoor spaces. It improves indoor air quality by filtering toxins like formaldehyde and xylene. [source]
Living floral displays and terrariums
CraftThe trailing habit and vibrant flowers make it ideal for hanging basket arrangements, mixed container gardens, and humid terrariums. Its compact growth suits vertical gardening and living walls. [source]
Hummingbird and pollinator attraction
WildlifeIn warm climates where grown outdoors, the red tubular flowers attract hummingbirds and other nectarivorous insects. Indoor specimens may attract house insects seeking nectar. [source]
Traditional Southeast Asian herbal use
MedicinalIn its native regions, Aeschynanthus species have been used in traditional folk medicine, though scientific research is limited. Modern herbal medicine recognizes limited applications. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Not harvested for consumption. Enjoy flowers while in bloom by displaying the hanging basket. Pinch back stems after flowering to encourage denser growth and promote future blooms. Remove dead flowers and spent stems regularly.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The common name 'Lipstick Plant' comes from the distinctive tubular red flowers that emerge from burgundy calyxes, resembling a tube of lipstick being applied.
- 🌱 Aeschynanthus is an epiphytic plant in its native habitat, meaning it naturally grows on trees in tropical rainforests, which explains its preference for loose, well-draining soil and high humidity.
- 🌱 Unlike most houseplants, Lipstick Plant flowers are specifically adapted to attract hummingbirds and specialized insects, which is why the tubular red blooms are long and narrow.
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