Aeschynanthus radicans
Aeschynanthus radicans
Lipstick Plant
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Taxonomy
Family Fabaceae · Genus Aeschynanthus
Description
Aeschynanthus radicans, the classic Lipstick Plant, is a cheerful trailing epiphyte with glossy leaves and dramatic red tubular flowers that pop from dark calyces—like lipstick from a tube. It thrives in bright, gentle light and warm, humid rooms, making it a favorite for hanging baskets and high shelves.
Common Names
Lipstick PlantTrailing Lipstick VineBasket Vine
Context
nativeRegion
Tropical Southeast Asia (Malaysia to Sumatra/Java), typically as an epiphyte in humid forests.
usdaZones
Outdoors year-round in USDA 11–12; commonly grown indoors elsewhere.
companionPlants
Hoya carnosa, Dischidia spp., Peperomia obtusifolia, Philodendron hederaceum, Epipremnum aureum
culturalUses
Widely used as an ornamental in hanging baskets for cascading foliage and bright blooms; attracts pollinators in frost-free gardens.
Care
Care Requirements
LightBright, indirect light; a few hours of soft morning sun is fine. Avoid harsh midday sun to prevent leaf scorch.
WateringWater when the top 25–50% of the mix dries. Keep evenly moist in growth, slightly drier in winter. Never let it sit in water.
SoilAiry, fast-draining epiphytic mix: orchid bark + peat/coco + perlite. Slightly acidic is ideal.
FertilizerFeed every 3–4 weeks spring–early fall with a balanced, half-strength liquid. Pause or halve in winter. Flush salts periodically.
HumidityPrefers 50–70%+. Use a pebble tray, humidifier, or group plants. Ensure airflow to prevent fungal issues.
TemperatureBest at 65–85°F (18–29°C). Protect from drafts; avoid below 60°F (15°C).
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitEvergreen, trailing epiphyte with arching, vining stems.
Mature SizeTrails 2–3 ft (60–90 cm), longer with age and support.
Growth RateModerate growth under warm, bright, humid conditions.
BloomingClusters of red tubular flowers mainly late spring through fall with sufficient light.
DormancyNo true dormancy; slight winter slowdown—reduce water and fertilizer.
Propagation
MethodsStem tip cuttings, Softwood cuttings, Air layering, Seed (uncommon)
DifficultyEasy to moderate
Best SeasonSpring to early summer
Maintenance & Notes
PruningTip-pinch after blooms to encourage branching; lightly shape in spring. Remove spent flowers and leggy stems.
RepottingEvery 2–3 years in spring or when mix breaks down; move up one size and refresh the airy medium.
Pests & DiseasesWatch for mealybugs, aphids, thrips, and spider mites. Overwatering can cause root rot; cool, stagnant air may lead to botrytis.
ToxicityGenerally considered non-toxic to pets and humans; ingestion may cause mild GI upset.
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