Psychotria elata
Psychotria elata
Hooker’s Lips
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Taxonomy
Family Rubiaceae · Genus Psychotria
Description
Psychotria elata, famously called Hooker’s Lips, is a tropical shrub with brilliant red, lip-shaped bracts that reveal small white flowers. It thrives in warm, shaded, humid conditions and is a true conversation piece for collectors.
Common Names
Hooker’s LipsHot Lips PlantHooker’s Lips PlantKiss Plant
Context
nativeRegion
Lowland rainforests of Central and northwestern South America (e.g., Panama, Colombia, Ecuador).
usdaZones
11–12 outdoors; greenhouse/indoor culture recommended elsewhere.
companionPlants
Anthurium, Philodendron, Calathea (Goeppertia), Maranta, Ferns (e.g., Nephrolepis), Guzmania bromeliads, Alpinia gingers
culturalUses
Primarily an ornamental curiosity and educational display plant; a symbol in conservation/ecotourism to highlight rainforest habitat loss. Avoid wild collection; support ethical propagation.
Care
Care Requirements
LightBright, filtered light to deep dappled shade; avoid harsh direct sun.
WateringKeep evenly moist but never waterlogged; allow the top 1–2 cm of mix to dry slightly between waterings.
SoilRich, airy, and acidic to slightly acidic mix (peat/coco coir, fine bark, perlite, leaf mold). Excellent drainage is essential.
FertilizerDilute, balanced liquid feed (1/4–1/2 strength) every 4 weeks in warm months; pause or reduce in cooler periods.
HumidityVery high humidity (70–90%); use a humidifier or terrarium/greenhouse conditions.
TemperatureWarm year-round, 68–85°F (20–30°C); avoid below 60°F (16°C). No frost.
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitEvergreen understory shrub in the coffee family (Rubiaceae).
Mature SizeTypically 3–10 ft (1–3 m) tall and 2–6 ft (0.6–1.8 m) wide in cultivation.
Growth RateModerate in ideal warmth/humidity; slow under indoor conditions.
BloomingShowy red bracts precede clusters of small white flowers; can occur intermittently year-round in tropical conditions.
DormancyNo true dormancy; slight slowdown in cooler, lower-light months.
Propagation
MethodsSemi-hardwood or tip cuttings with bottom heat and humidity, Air layering, Fresh seeds (slow, erratic germination)
DifficultyChallenging—requires high humidity, warmth, and patience.
Best SeasonLate spring to early summer for cuttings; sow fresh seed promptly in warm conditions.
Maintenance & Notes
PruningLight tip-pruning to shape and encourage bushiness; remove spent bracts and dead or crossing stems.
RepottingRepot every 1–2 years in spring when roots fill the pot; use a slightly larger container with fresh, airy mix.
Pests & DiseasesWatch for spider mites, mealybugs, scale, and aphids; manage with humidity, airflow, and gentle insecticidal treatments. Prevent root rot with sharp drainage and careful watering.
ToxicityNot well studied; many Psychotria contain bioactive compounds. Treat as potentially toxic—do not ingest; keep away from pets and children.
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