Red Lipstick Plant (Aeschynanthus radicans) (2025)

The Red Lipstick Plant (Aeschynanthus radicans) is a striking and unique houseplant known for its vibrant, tubular red flowers that resemble lipstick tubes, which is how it got its name. Native to Southeast Asia, particularly Malaysia and Indonesia, this plant thrives in humid environments and is a great choice for hanging baskets or decorative containers. Its glossy, dark green leaves and bright, red blooms make it an attractive addition to any indoor space.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to care for the Red Lipstick Plant, from planting to maintenance.

1. Overview of the Red Lipstick Plant

The Red Lipstick Plant is an epiphytic plant, meaning it naturally grows on trees in the wild, deriving moisture and nutrients from the air and rain. It typically grows to about 12 to 18 inches in length and has long, trailing vines. The plant is best known for its clusters of red, tubular flowers that appear in late spring to summer. These flowers contrast beautifully with its lush green foliage.

2. Choosing the Right Location

The Red Lipstick Plant is a tropical plant that requires specific environmental conditions to thrive.

• Light: The Red Lipstick Plant prefers bright, indirect light. While it can tolerate low light, it will not flower as prolifically and may become leggy. Avoid direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves. A bright, east- or west-facing window is ideal for this plant.
• Temperature: This plant thrives in warm temperatures, ideally between 65°F and 75°F (18°C to 24°C). Avoid placing the Red Lipstick Plant in areas where temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C), as cold drafts can harm it.
• Humidity: As a tropical plant, the Red Lipstick Plant requires high humidity. It thrives in humidity levels between 50% and 60%, and in drier environments, you may need to increase humidity. To achieve this, you can use a humidifier, mist the plant regularly, or place a tray of water near the plant. Grouping plants together can also help maintain a higher humidity level.

3. Soil and Potting Requirements

The Red Lipstick Plant prefers well-draining soil that retains moisture without becoming waterlogged. It is important to replicate the plant’s natural epiphytic conditions as much as possible.

• Soil Type: A lightweight, well-draining potting mix works best. You can use a standard houseplant mix and add extra perlite or orchid bark to improve drainage. An epiphytic orchid mix is another good option because it mimics the plant’s natural growing conditions.
• Pot Size: The Red Lipstick Plant does not have an extensive root system, so it prefers a smaller pot that is just a bit larger than the root ball. When repotting, choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the previous one.
• Drainage: Proper drainage is critical to avoid root rot. Ensure that the pot has adequate drainage holes. Placing a layer of gravel or small stones at the bottom of the pot can also help to improve drainage.

4. Watering

Watering is a critical aspect of caring for the Red Lipstick Plant. It does not like to be too wet or too dry, so maintaining the right moisture level is key.

• Watering Frequency: Water the plant when the top 1 to 2 inches of soil are dry. Typically, this means watering every 1 to 2 weeks, but the frequency will depend on the humidity and temperature in your home. During the growing season (spring and summer), the plant will require more frequent watering, while in the dormant season (fall and winter), you can reduce watering.
• Watering Method: When watering, ensure that you water thoroughly, allowing water to drain from the bottom of the pot. Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water, as this can lead to root rot. It is better to underwater slightly than overwater.
• Water Quality: Use room temperature, filtered, or distilled water if possible. If your tap water is hard or contains high levels of chlorine, it may be beneficial to use filtered water to avoid potential damage to the plant.

5. Fertilization

The Red Lipstick Plant benefits from occasional feeding, particularly during the growing season when it is actively producing new growth and flowers.

• Type of Fertilizer: A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer, such as a 20-20-20 formula, is ideal for this plant. You can also use a fertilizer designed for orchids or tropical plants, as these often have the nutrients suited for epiphytic plants.
• Fertilizing Schedule: Fertilize the Red Lipstick Plant once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). In the fall and winter, when the plant is not actively growing, reduce fertilization or stop entirely.
• Fertilizer Application: Always dilute the fertilizer to half the recommended strength to avoid overfeeding. Over-fertilizing can cause the plant to grow too quickly and produce less vibrant flowers.

6. Pruning and Maintenance

The Red Lipstick Plant does not require a lot of pruning, but some care is needed to maintain its shape and health.

• Pruning: If the plant becomes too leggy or overgrown, you can prune back the stems to encourage a bushier growth habit. Cut just above a leaf node to promote new growth from that point. Pruning is best done in the spring or early summer, just before the plant begins to flower.
• Cleaning: Dust can accumulate on the glossy leaves, which can inhibit photosynthesis. Gently wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to keep them clean and shiny. Avoid using leaf shine products, as they can clog the pores of the plant.

7. Repotting

While the Red Lipstick Plant doesn’t need frequent repotting, it should be repotted every 1 to 2 years to refresh the soil and allow for new growth.

• When to Repot: Repot the plant when it has outgrown its pot, or if the soil has become compacted and no longer drains well. Repotting is also a good opportunity to replace any old or decayed roots and refresh the potting mix.
• How to Repot: Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one, and gently remove the plant from its old pot. Check the roots for any signs of rot or disease, and trim away any damaged roots. Place the plant in the new pot, and fill it with fresh, well-draining potting mix.

8. Pests and Diseases

While the Red Lipstick Plant is generally resistant to pests, it can occasionally be affected by a few common houseplant pests and diseases.

• Common Pests:
  • Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing of the leaves and a fine webbing on the plant. If you notice spider mites, rinse the plant with a strong stream of water or treat with insecticidal soap.
  • Mealybugs: These pests appear as small, cotton-like clumps on the plant. Mealybugs can be removed manually with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or treated with insecticidal soap.
  • Aphids: Aphids can cause yellowing and curling of leaves. Spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil to eliminate aphids.
• Fungal Diseases: The Red Lipstick Plant can be susceptible to fungal issues like powdery mildew or root rot if it is kept in overly damp conditions. Ensure the plant has good air circulation and that the soil is allowed to dry out between waterings.

9. Propagation

The Red Lipstick Plant can be propagated through stem cuttings, which is an easy way to create new plants.

• Stem Cuttings: Take a 4- to 6-inch cutting from the tip of a healthy stem. Make sure the cutting has at least one leaf node. Remove the lower leaves from the cutting and place it in a glass of water or directly into moist potting soil. If rooting in water, change the water every few days to prevent stagnation. Once roots have developed (about 2 to 3 weeks), transplant the cutting into a pot with fresh soil.
• Rooting Hormone: Although not necessary, you can dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone to encourage faster root development.

10. Toxicity

The Red Lipstick Plant is non-toxic to humans and pets, making it a safe choice for households with children and animals. However, it’s always a good idea to discourage pets from chewing on houseplants, as even non-toxic plants can cause gastrointestinal upset if ingested in large quantities.

Conclusion

The Red Lipstick Plant is a beautiful and relatively easy-to-care-for houseplant that rewards you with stunning, tubular red flowers. With proper light, humidity, watering, and occasional feeding, this plant can thrive and bloom year after year. Whether you place it in a hanging basket or allow it to trail from a shelf, its vibrant blooms and glossy foliage are sure to add a touch of elegance to your home.