Discover expert tips on how to care for a lipstick plant, from ideal light and water routines to soil, temperature, and preventative pest care.
Beginners will find clear guidance and confidence to help their plants thrive, bloom beautifully, and become a vibrant indoor favorite.
Lipstick plants (Aeschynanthus radicans) are gorgeous tropical vines known for their vivid coral-red blooms emerging from tubular buds, like a swaying, living lipstick display.
As an experienced gardener, I’ve nurtured several of these beauties, and my clients adore them. This comprehensive guide blends research with real-world know-how to help beginners confidently grow flourishing lipstick plants.
Lipstick Plant Care Guide: Light, Water & Humidity Needs
Learn the ideal light, water, and humidity needs of lipstick plants for lush growth and vibrant blooms.
From bright indirect light tips to balanced watering schedules and humidity-boosting hacks, this guide equips beginners with everything needed for a thriving indoor tropical display.
Light: Bright, Indirect, No Harsh Sun
- Optimal: A bright spot with indirect light, think east or west window with sheer curtain.
- Avoid direct midday sun; it’s too strong and can scorch leaves.
- If growth slows or stems stretch, that’s a sign of insufficient light, move closer to the window or consider supplemental grow lights.
Water: Consistency Is Key
- Keep soil evenly moist, not soaked.
- Water thoroughly, until it drains from the bottom.
- Let the top 1–2 inches dry between waterings. You can stick your finger in to test.
- In spring/summer, expect to water every 5–7 days; in fall/winter, every 10–14 days or as needed.
Humidity: Natural Tropical Conditions
- Lipstick plants thrive with 50–60% humidity, similar to tropical jungles.
- In drier homes, especially with active heating or A/C:
- Use a humidifier nearby.
- Group plants together to create a mini-humidity zone.
- Place the pot on a tray of pebbles and water, just avoid the pot sitting in water.
| Problem | Sign | Fix |
| Brown leaf edges | Low humidity | Use humidifier or pebble tray |
| Wilting leaves | Underwatering | Adjust water schedule |
| Yellowing lower leaves | Overwatering | Let soil dry slightly; reduce watering |
Best Soil Mix & Repotting Tips for Aeschynanthus radicans
Choosing the best soil mix for lipstick plants is crucial to prevent root rot and support healthy growth.
This guide explains the ideal soil blend, drainage needs, and when and how to repot your Aeschynanthus radicans for long-term plant success.
Why Soil Matters So Much
Lipstick plants hail from tropical rainforests where they grow as epiphytes in tree nooks with well-aerated, organic-rich matter. So, regular potting soil just doesn’t cut it, it holds too much water and can suffocate roots.
The Ideal Soil Mix for Lipstick Plants
For lipstick plants, you want a mix that offers:
- Excellent drainage
- Good aeration
- Moisture retention without sogginess
A beginner-friendly, foolproof blend:
| Ingredient | Function | Amount |
| Peat moss or coco coir | Holds moisture & adds organic matter | 50% |
| Perlite or pumice | Improves drainage & airflow | 30% |
| Orchid bark or charcoal | Adds texture & prevents compaction | 20% |
Tip: Pre-mixed “African violet” or “epiphyte” soil mixes work great in a pinch, just add some orchid bark for better texture.
Repotting: When & How
- When to Repot: Every 2–3 years or when roots grow out of the drainage holes or the soil becomes compacted.
- Best Time: Early spring, before the active growing season kicks in.
- How-To:
- Gently remove the plant and loosen compacted roots.
- Use a pot 1–2 inches wider, with drainage holes.
- Replant using your fresh mix and water thoroughly.
Signs Your Lipstick Plant Needs Repotting
- Roots circling inside the pot or poking out of the bottom
- Water running straight through with no retention
- Soil that stays soggy for too long or dries out extremely fast
Temperature Requirements: Ideal Range for Lipstick Plants
Lipstick plants thrive in warm, stable environments. Learn the ideal temperature range to encourage blooming and avoid stress.
This guide explains how to protect your plant from temperature swings, drafts, and seasonal changes for year-round health and vibrant growth.
The Sweet Spot: Warm & Tropical
Lipstick plants love cozy conditions that mimic their Southeast Asian rainforest origins. If your home feels comfortable to you in a t-shirt, chances are it’s good for your plant too.
- Ideal daytime temp: 70–85°F (21–29°C)
- Nighttime minimum: No lower than 60°F (15°C)
Avoid These Temperature Mistakes
- Cold drafts: Don’t place your plant near exterior doors or drafty windows in winter.
- Heat stress: Keep away from radiators, heaters, or stifling window spots in summer.
- Sudden fluctuations: Avoid placing near vents or A/C units where hot and cold air cycles can shock the plant.
Seasonal Adjustments
- In winter: Growth slows. Keep temps stable and reduce watering.
- In summer: Your plant may grow faster and bloom more. Just make sure it’s not baking in a hot window!
| Season | Adjustments | Tips |
| Spring/Summer | Maintain warmth & high humidity | Boost light for blooming |
| Fall/Winter | Keep away from drafts | Lower watering frequency |
Pro Tip: If you live in a cooler climate, consider placing your lipstick plant in a heated sunroom or use a heat mat underneath the pot (on low) during winter to help maintain root warmth.
Watering Schedule: How Often to Water a Lipstick Plant
Knowing how often to water a lipstick plant is key to preventing root rot or underwatering.
This guide breaks down the best watering practices based on seasons, pot type, and plant behavior, so your lipstick plant stays happy, hydrated, and healthy year-round.
Why Watering is Tricky but Critical
Lipstick plants are sensitive to extremes. Overwatering can lead to soggy roots and fungal issues, while underwatering can cause wilting, leaf drop, and stunted growth. The secret? Balance and consistency.
General Watering Schedule
| Season | Frequency (Approx.) | Notes |
| Spring/Summer | Every 5–7 days | Growth is active, check soil often |
| Fall/Winter | Every 10–14 days | Growth slows, reduce watering |
- Always water thoroughly, until excess drains from the bottom.
- Let the top 1–2 inches of soil dry out before rewatering.
- Use room-temperature, filtered or distilled water if your tap water is hard or chlorinated.
Check Before You Water
Here are 3 simple ways to check if your lipstick plant needs watering:
- Finger Test: Insert your finger 1–2 inches into the soil. Dry? Time to water.
- Lift Test: A light pot = dry soil. Heavier = still moist.
- Soil Color Test: Dry soil looks pale and loose; moist soil is darker and clumped.
Signs of Watering Issues
| Symptom | Likely Cause | Fix |
| Wilting, dry leaves | Underwatering | Increase watering frequency slightly |
| Yellowing, mushy stems | Overwatering | Let soil dry, check drainage holes |
| Crisp leaf edges | Inconsistent care | Establish a steady routine |
Expert Tip: Avoid leaving your plant sitting in a saucer of water. Always empty it 10–15 minutes after watering to prevent root rot.
Boost Blooms: Fertilizer and Pruning Tips for Flowering
Encourage lush growth and vibrant blooms with the right fertilizer and pruning techniques for your lipstick plant.
This guide walks you through what, when, and how to feed and trim your plant to promote continuous flowering and keep it looking full and fresh.
Fertilizing for Flower Power
Lipstick plants are moderate feeders, but during the growing season, they benefit greatly from a nutrient boost.
- Best type: A balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer (like 10-10-10 or 20-20-20) or one slightly higher in phosphorus to encourage flowering.
- Frequency: Feed every 2–4 weeks from spring through early fall.
- Dilution: Always dilute to half-strength to avoid root burn.
Pro Tip: Organic options like fish emulsion or worm castings also work wonders for bloom health and overall plant vitality.
Stop Feeding in Winter
As your plant enters dormancy, cut back on fertilizing completely. Overfeeding in the off-season can cause salt buildup or stress.
How to Prune a Lipstick Plant
Pruning helps shape your plant, promotes branching, and keeps it bushy and attractive, not leggy.
- Best time to prune: Early spring before the main growing season.
- What to prune: Leggy stems, faded flowers, or any dead/damaged growth.
- How to prune:
- Use clean, sharp scissors or shears.
- Cut just above a node (where leaves grow).
- Don’t remove more than 25–30% of the plant at one time.
Pinching Back for Bushiness
Gently pinching the growing tips encourages more lateral growth, making your lipstick plant fuller. It’s especially useful if your plant looks spindly or is climbing too much.
| Action | Benefit |
| Fertilize regularly | Stimulates strong blooms |
| Prune faded stems | Promotes new flower growth |
| Pinch stem tips | Encourages bushier appearance |
How to Propagate Your Lipstick Plant from Cuttings
Propagating a lipstick plant from cuttings is simple and rewarding. Learn how to take healthy stem cuttings, root them in water or soil, and grow new plants from scratch.
This step-by-step guide is perfect for beginners and ideal for gifting or expanding your indoor jungle.
Why Propagate?
Lipstick plants propagate easily, and growing a new plant from your favorite vine is both fun and budget-friendly.
Whether you’re sharing with a friend or filling out a hanging basket, propagation lets you multiply your plants with minimal effort.
What You’ll Need
- Sharp scissors or pruning shears
- Healthy mother plant
- Small jar of clean water or pot with well-draining soil
- Optional: rooting hormone (not required, but helpful)
Step-by-Step: Water Propagation Method
- Choose a healthy vine with at least 4–6 inches of length and a few nodes (those little bumps where leaves grow).
- Snip just below a node using clean shears.
- Remove lower leaves, leaving only 1–2 at the top.
- Place the cutting in water, ensuring at least one node is submerged.
- Set the jar in bright, indirect light.
- Change the water every 3–5 days to keep it clean.
Roots usually appear in 2–4 weeks. Once roots are 1–2 inches long, pot them up in a small container with a light, airy soil mix.
Step-by-Step: Soil Propagation Method
- Prepare a small pot with a mix of peat, perlite, and bark.
- Dip the cut end in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant the cutting so at least one node is buried.
- Keep the soil lightly moist and cover the pot with a clear plastic bag to create a mini greenhouse effect.
| Method | Pros | Cons |
| Water propagation | Easy to watch root growth | Transplant shock possible |
| Soil propagation | Less transplant stress | Slower rooting visibility |
Expert Tip: Propagate multiple cuttings at once and pot them together for a fuller plant right from the start!
Troubleshooting Common Problems: Pest, Disease & Leaf Issues
Lipstick plants are generally easy to care for, but problems like yellowing leaves, pests, or leaf drop can still pop up.
This troubleshooting guide helps beginners quickly identify and fix common issues with their lipstick plant before they become serious.
1. Yellowing Leaves
Likely Cause: Overwatering or poor drainage
Fix: Let the soil dry more between waterings. Check if the pot has proper drainage holes and consider repotting into a well-draining mix.
2. Leaf Drop
Likely Cause: Sudden temperature changes, drafts, or inconsistent watering
Fix: Move the plant to a stable location away from vents or exterior doors. Stick to a consistent watering routine.
3. Wilting Leaves
Likely Cause: Underwatering or root rot
Fix: Check soil moisture. If it’s bone dry, give the plant a thorough watering. If it’s wet and the roots smell bad, root rot might be setting in—trim damaged roots and repot in fresh soil.
4. Pests to Watch Out For
- Spider mites: Fine webbing under leaves; speckled or dry leaf surfaces
- Mealybugs: Cotton-like white clumps at stem joints
- Aphids: Small green or black bugs on new growth
Treatment:
- Wipe leaves with a damp cloth and mild soap
- Use neem oil or insecticidal soap weekly until pests are gone
- Isolate the affected plant to prevent spread
5. Fungal Issues
Symptoms: Black spots, soft stems, or mold
Fix: Improve air circulation around the plant. Avoid wetting the leaves during watering and remove any infected leaves immediately.
Quick Troubleshooting Table
| Symptom | Common Cause | Solution |
| Yellow leaves | Overwatering | Let soil dry, check pot drainage |
| Wilting | Underwatering or rot | Adjust watering, inspect roots |
| Leaf drop | Drafts or stress | Stabilize environment, water consistently |
| Brown leaf tips | Low humidity | Increase moisture with humidifier or tray |
| Pest infestation | Mites, mealybugs, etc. | Wipe leaves, treat with neem oil |
Pro Tip: Always inspect new plants before bringing them indoors, and quarantine them for 1–2 weeks to prevent introducing pests to your existing collection.
Lipstick Plant Varieties: Curly, Black Pagoda & More Species
There’s more than one kind of lipstick plant! From curly vines to spotted leaves, lipstick plant varieties like Curly, Black Pagoda, and Mona Lisa offer unique textures and colors.
Discover the most popular types and what makes each one special for your indoor plant collection.
1. Aeschynanthus radicans ‘Mona Lisa’
This classic variety is what most people picture when they hear “lipstick plant.” It’s known for:
- Glossy green leaves
- Bright red tubular flowers
- Reliable flowering with proper light and care
Beginner-friendly and widely available, this one’s perfect for first-timers.
2. Aeschynanthus radicans ‘Curly’ (Rasta)
Nicknamed the “Curly Lipstick Plant”, it’s a showstopper with:
- Dramatically curled foliage
- Cascading vines
- Red blooms tucked within tight coils
Ideal for hanging baskets, this variety adds texture and whimsy to any plant shelf.
3. Aeschynanthus longicaulis ‘Black Pagoda’
This stunner features:
- Deep green leaves with purple-maroon undersides
- Mottled, almost camouflage-like patterns
- More subtle greenish-yellow flowers
Unlike other varieties, Black Pagoda is grown more for its foliage than flowers, great for low-light areas and moody plant corners.
4. Aeschynanthus ‘Tangerine’
This variety offers:
- Brighter, orange-red blooms
- Slightly more upright growth habit
- Bold tropical vibes with vivid contrast
Perfect if you want blooms with a twist.
5. Aeschynanthus speciosus
The giant of the lipstick family, with:
- Large, leathery leaves
- Big orange or red blooms
- A more dramatic, wild aesthetic
Best for experienced plant parents with space to let it sprawl.
| Variety Name | Key Feature | Ideal For |
| Mona Lisa | Classic red blooms | Beginners & bloom-seekers |
| Curly (Rasta) | Twisting leaves | Hanging baskets, texture |
| Black Pagoda | Mottled foliage | Low light, unique decor |
| Tangerine | Orange-red flowers | Bright, tropical rooms |
| Speciosus | Large flowers, bold leaves | Spacious displays, experts |
Pro Tip: All varieties follow similar care needs, but some, like ‘Black Pagoda’, are a bit more tolerant of lower light or inconsistent watering.
Choosing the Right Pot & Placement for Your Lipstick Plant
Your lipstick plant’s health depends on choosing the right pot and placement.
Learn how to select containers with proper drainage and where to position your plant for ideal growth, trailing display, and vibrant flowering.
This guide helps you match form with function, stylishly and smartly.
Pot Matters: Drainage First, Style Second
Lipstick plants don’t like “wet feet,” so choosing a pot with good drainage is non-negotiable.
- Material: Terracotta is great for breathability, while plastic holds moisture longer.
- Size: Go for a pot just 1–2 inches larger than the root ball to prevent overwatering.
- Drainage: Always choose a pot with at least one drainage hole.
Tip: Use a saucer or decorative cachepot to catch drips, but never let the plant sit in standing water.
Placement: Where Your Lipstick Plant Thrives
Lipstick plants are natural trailers, so hanging baskets or high shelves are perfect for showing off their cascading vines.
- Best locations: Near an east- or west-facing window, where they’ll get plenty of bright, indirect light.
- Avoid: Dark corners, drafty doorways, or direct hot sun from south-facing windows.
- Humidity boost: Bathrooms with filtered light are ideal because of their naturally high moisture levels.
Creative Display Ideas
- Use macramé hangers to suspend pots in sunny windows.
- Mount small wall shelves to let vines spill over in layers.
- Train vines along a trellis or hoop for a decorative twist.
| Pot Feature | Importance |
| Drainage hole | Prevents root rot |
| Proper size | Balances moisture & space |
| Breathable material | Helps regulate soil moisture |
| Placement Tip | Why It Works |
| Bright, filtered light | Encourages flowering |
| Elevated display | Highlights trailing vines |
| Away from AC/heaters | Prevents moisture loss or stress |
Pro Tip: Rotate your lipstick plant every couple of weeks so it grows evenly on all sides and doesn’t lean toward the light.
Repotting Lipstick Plants: When & How to Repot Successfully
Knowing when and how to repot your lipstick plant keeps it growing strong and healthy.
This guide shows you how to spot signs it’s time to repot, pick the right soil mix, and transfer your plant without stress. A must-read for thriving houseplants!
When Should You Repot a Lipstick Plant?
Lipstick plants typically need repotting every 1–2 years. Watch for these signs:
- Roots growing out of the drainage hole
- Water runs through the pot too quickly
- Stunted growth, even during spring and summer
- Soil stays soggy or dries out too fast
Pro Tip: Spring is the best time to repot, just before the plant enters its active growing season.
How to Choose the Right Soil
Lipstick plants thrive in a light, chunky mix that drains well but retains just enough moisture.
Best potting mix formula:
- 2 parts peat moss or coco coir
- 1 part perlite or pumice
- 1 part orchid bark or coarse sand
Avoid heavy garden soil or anything labeled “moisture-retentive.” These can lead to root rot.
Step-by-Step Repotting Instructions
- Water the plant a day before to soften the root ball.
- Gently remove the plant from its current pot by tipping and squeezing the sides.
- Loosen the roots and trim any that are dead, mushy, or circling tightly.
- Place fresh soil in the bottom of the new pot.
- Set the plant in and fill around the sides with soil, pressing lightly.
- Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom.
- Let it rest in indirect light for a few days to reduce transplant shock.
Aftercare Tips
- Avoid fertilizing for about 4 weeks after repotting.
- Keep it in the same lighting conditions.
- Monitor for stress signs like drooping or leaf yellowing, it should bounce back within a week or two.
| Step | Why It Matters |
| Trim dead roots | Prevents disease & promotes growth |
| Use chunky soil | Mimics natural growing conditions |
| Water after repot | Helps settle roots |
| Avoid fertilizing | Prevents nutrient overload |
Lipstick Plant Not Blooming? Causes & How to Fix It
If your lipstick plant isn’t blooming, don’t worry, there’s usually a fix.
Discover the top reasons your plant may not flower and what simple changes can get it back on track to producing its vibrant, tube-shaped blooms. This section breaks it down for beginners.
1. Not Enough Light
The number one reason lipstick plants don’t bloom? Insufficient light.
- They need bright, indirect light to flower.
- Without enough sun, the plant focuses on survival, not blooming.
Solution: Move it near an east- or west-facing window, or supplement with a grow light if natural light is limited.
2. Skipping the Dormant Period
Lipstick plants often need a brief rest period in winter to trigger flowering in spring and summer.
- During dormancy, reduce watering and stop fertilizing.
- Keep it in slightly cooler temperatures (60–65°F or 15–18°C).
This mimics natural seasonal cues and encourages blooming when conditions warm up.
3. Overfertilizing with Nitrogen
Too much nitrogen encourages lush green growth, but not flowers.
- Use a fertilizer higher in phosphorus (like a 10-30-10 blend) during bloom season.
Tip: Fertilize every 2–4 weeks during the growing season, and skip in winter.
4. Stress or Improper Repotting
Transplant shock or sudden changes in environment can stall blooms.
- If you’ve recently repotted or moved the plant, give it time to adjust.
- Make sure it’s not sitting in soggy soil or dealing with pest issues.
5. Inconsistent Watering or Humidity
Stress caused by drying out or fluctuating humidity can lead to bloom drop, or no flowers at all.
- Keep soil evenly moist, not soggy.
- Use a humidity tray or humidifier if your home is very dry.
| Problem | Fix |
| Not enough light | Move to a brighter location |
| No rest period | Mimic winter dormancy |
| High nitrogen fertilizer | Switch to bloom booster with phosphorus |
| Recent repotting | Give time to recover |
| Low humidity | Add tray or humidifier |
Pro Tip: Sometimes just a little patience goes a long way. Lipstick plants often bloom once they’re fully settled into their environment and growing conditions are steady.
Final Thoughts
Taking care of a lipstick plant doesn’t have to be complicated, just remember the basics:
- Bright, filtered light is essential for vibrant blooms.
- A well-draining, airy soil mix mimicking their natural epiphytic habitat helps prevent root rot.
- Consistent moisture without drowning the roots enables healthy growth and flowering.
- Aim for warm temperatures (65–85°F) and high humidity (60–80%) to give your plant its ideal tropical retreat.
- Support blooms with balanced, diluted fertilizer in the growing season and regular pruning to promote lush foliage.
A lipstick plant, when cared for with light, moisture, warmth, and nutrient balance, is a relatively low-maintenance indoor treasure.
It’s perfect for hanging baskets or decorative displays, and it rewards patience with vibrant, long-lasting flowers.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned plant lover, the key lies in maintaining steady conditions that mirror its tropical roots.
With a little attention and the right know-how, your lipstick plant will flourish and bring color and joy into your space for years to come.
Happy growing, may your indoor jungle continue to thrive!