Check out this rare Lipstick Plant. This unusual variety known as ‘Black Pagoda’ (Aeschynanthus Longicaulis) features a striking maroon veining on the underside of the leaves. This particular plant is currently flowering with pretty yellow flowers.
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Welcome to HealthyHouseplants.com, where we teach you how to master gardening in The Great Indoors.
Today’s plant care video is all about Alocasia, commonly known as Elephant Ear. This eye-catching houseplant features arrow-shaped or heart-shaped foliage, often with textured leaves and striking veining. Colors range from green and silver to burgundy and white, with lighter-colored veins standing out against darker leaves—making it a dramatic focal point in any indoor garden.
🏝️ Origin & Growth Habits
Alocasia is a subtropical plant native to Eastern Australia and Asia, where it thrives on the forest floor beneath a canopy of trees. To absorb more light, it grows large leaves—some reaching up to three to four feet long, with mature plants growing up to 15 feet tall. However, Alocasia is slow-growing, so even larger varieties take time to reach full size. Expect growth mainly during spring and summer, with dormancy in fall and winter.
🌞 Lighting Requirements
In nature, Alocasia grows under filtered sunlight, so it adapts well to low to bright indirect light. It thrives in eastern-facing windows and should be kept 3–4 feet away from west or south windows to prevent leaf burn. It also does well under full-spectrum grow lights. Rotate your plant during each watering to ensure even light exposure and prevent toppling.
💧 Watering Needs
Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy. Water when the top inch of soil dries out or when a moisture meter reads 4. In winter, reduce watering and allow the meter to approach 3 before watering again. Always use warm water, as Alocasia prefers warm conditions.
💦 Humidity
Aim for 45–60% humidity. Signs of low humidity include crispy leaf edges and brown tips. Boost humidity by:
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Grouping plants
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Using a humidifier
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Setting up a pebble tray
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Misting occasionally
🌡️ Temperature
Alocasia prefers a warm environment between 65°F and 85°F. Avoid cold drafts and vents from air conditioning or heating, which dry out the foliage. During winter dormancy, it will stop growing but won’t necessarily lose leaves.
🌱 Fertilizing
Use an organic fertilizer monthly during spring and summer. Avoid feeding in fall and winter. Opt for a low NPK ratio, such as 8-8-8 or lower, to support steady growth.
🌿 Repotting & Division
Alocasia enjoys being slightly root-bound, but in bright light, it may need annual repotting. Use a well-draining soil mix that retains nutrients—look for ingredients like perlite, pumice, and peat or coir. You can divide the plant while repotting to control size and encourage healthy growth. When pruning, remove only one-third or less of the plant and wait a few months before pruning again.
🐛 Pests
Spider mites are the most common pest, thriving in dry environments. Prevent them by maintaining humidity and proper watering. If needed, treat with neem oil or give your plant a gentle bath to eliminate pests.
FAQs About the Black Pagoda Lipstick Plant
What is the Black Pagoda lipstick plant?
The Black Pagoda lipstick plant is a variety of Aeschynanthus known for its yellow, tubular blooms and striking foliage with spotted undersides.
Where is the Black Pagoda lipstick plant native to?
This plant is native to Southeast Asia, specifically Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Burma.
How should I care for the Black Pagoda lipstick plant?
It prefers bright but indirect light, such as from an eastern window or under full-spectrum lighting. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Can the Black Pagoda lipstick plant tolerate low light?
It can tolerate lower light levels better than common lipstick plants, but still needs bright light to encourage blooming.
What are other names for the Black Pagoda lipstick plant?
You may also find it listed as Aeschynanthus zebrina, Aeschynanthus marmoratus, or Aeschynanthus speciosus.
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