Learn all about growing Lipstick (Aeschynanthus) plant. This gorgeous plant, the Black Pagoda, is a bit tricky to grow, but this video will help. Learn all about lighting, watering, fertilizing, humidity and more for lipstick plant. See care time stamps below.
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Welcome to HealthyHouseplants.com, your go-to source for gardening in The Great Indoors. In this video, we dive into the care of the lipstick plant (Aeschynanthus)—specifically, the Black Pagoda variety (Aeschynanthus longicaulis) and Aeschynanthus radicans.
The lipstick plant gets its name from its bright, tubular flowers resembling lipstick tubes. The Black Pagoda has variegated foliage and a unique bloom structure, while radicans features vivid red flowers. These plants are members of the Gesneriad family, closely related to African violets and gloxinia. They grow epiphytically in humid Asian forests, attaching themselves to trees without drawing nutrients from them.
🌞 Lighting
Lipstick plants thrive in bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sun, especially for young plants. East-facing windows work well. South windows are okay if the plant is placed several feet away. Full-spectrum grow lights also encourage blooming.
💧 Watering
Water when the plant is nearing dryness—around level 3 on a moisture meter. Avoid letting it dry out completely or stay too wet, especially in winter. Always use warm water to avoid root shock.
🌫️ Humidity
These jungle natives prefer 55–65% humidity or higher. Low humidity causes browning and crispy leaves. Use misting, pebble trays, or a humidifier. Grouping plants also helps increase humidity naturally.
🌡️ Temperature
Maintain temperatures between 70–80°F. Avoid drops below 55°F, which can lead to leaf drop.
🌿 Fertilizing
Fertilize monthly during spring and summer, and every 6 weeks in fall and winter with a liquid organic fertilizer at half strength.
🪴 Repotting
Lipstick plants like being slightly pot-bound. Repot every 2–3 years, only one size up. Use a well-draining, humus-rich organic potting mix with ingredients like perlite, pumice, and worm castings.
✂️ Pruning & Propagation
Prune straggly vines and faded flowers. You can propagate using cuttings—similar to goldfish plant propagation.
🐛 Pests
They’re usually pest-free but may get mealybugs or spider mites. Treat mealybugs with 91% isopropyl alcohol and spider mites with neem oil, while increasing humidity to discourage them.
Lipstick Plant (Aeschynanthus) Care FAQ
What kind of light does a lipstick plant need?
Lipstick plants require bright, indirect light to bloom well. East-facing windows are ideal, and they also do well under full-spectrum grow lights.
How often should I water my lipstick plant?
Water when the plant is approaching dryness, around level 3 on a moisture meter. Avoid letting it dry out or stay too soggy. Use warm water to prevent root shock.
Does the lipstick plant need high humidity?
Yes, this plant prefers 55–65% humidity or higher. Use pebble trays, misting, humidifiers, or group plants to maintain optimal humidity levels.
What temperature is best for lipstick plants?
Keep the plant in temperatures between 70–80°F. Avoid exposing it to temperatures below 55°F, which can lead to leaf drop.
How do I fertilize a lipstick plant?
Fertilize once a month in spring and summer, and every six weeks in fall and winter. Use an organic liquid fertilizer at half strength.
How often should I repot a lipstick plant?
Repot every 2–3 years when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot only one size larger and use well-draining, organic soil.
Can I prune and propagate my lipstick plant?
Yes, prune dead or leggy vines and spent flowers. Use the cuttings to propagate, following a method similar to goldfish plant propagation.
What pests affect lipstick plants?
Mealybugs and spider mites are potential pests. Treat mealybugs with isopropyl alcohol and spider mites with neem oil, while increasing humidity.
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