How to care for: Lipstick plant (Aeschynanthus)

The Aeschynanthus, or Lipstick plant, comes from the family of Gesneriaceae, and has 150 species of different tropical and subtropical flowering plants. The Aeschynanthus is also called Lipstick plant because of its flowers. Its flower buds are red or pink coloured and look like a lipstick tube.

Medium light

Water once a week

Non-Toxic

Non Air-purifying

How do you take care of a Lipstick plant?
 

Location

The Lipstick plant likes to be placed in a spot with lots of light. It is best to place the plant in medium bright light. The Lipstick plant prefers a spot next to a window on the west or east. A spot near the south is of course also possible. Make sure that the plant is at least 2 metres away from the window. A spot near the north probably has too little light.

Watering

A Lipstick plant needs water at least once a week. In summer it is best to water the plant twice a week. Make sure that the water can drain away well. Otherwise, water will remain in the bottom of the flowerpot and your Lipstick plant may suffer from root rot. In the winter, a splash of water once a week is enough for a Lipstick plant.

Plant nutrition

The Lipstick plant doesn't use a lot of energy. However, you can add extra nutrients. You can provide these nutrients by plant nutrition. We recommend giving the Lipstick plant extra nutrition once every month from spring until autumn. After autumn and in winter it is better not to give extra nutrients. In the winter, plant nutrition can actually be harmful for the Lipstick plant!

Repotting

We recommend repotting the Lipstick plant every 2 years. This gives the plant new nutrients and more room for root growth. The airier soil is also very good for the water flowing through. The best period to repot is spring.

Temperature

The most ideal temperature for an Aeschynanthus plant is typically between 18 to 24 degrees Celsius. It prefers a moderately warm environment without extreme temperature fluctuations.

Pruning

Pruning is not necessary for Aeschynanthus plants unless you feel like you need to do so. Occasional pruning can help maintain a compact shape and encourage branching. Remove any dead or yellowed leaves, flowers or stems to keep the plant healthy and tidy. Always use clean and sharp tools to make precise cuts.

The Lipstick plant is not excessively susceptible to diseases and pests. Should the plant still suffer from pests, then you can use pesticide. Although pesticide can mean the end of the plant. Therefore, be careful.

What are the signs of too much water?

If the Lipstick plant gets too much water, you can see this on the plant's leaves. Too much water will cause the leaves to lose their gloss. The Lipstick plant will also drop healthy green leaves if it gets too much water.

What are the signs of too little water?

If the Lipstick plant doesn't get enough water, it will show as scorched leaves. If the Lipstick plant has flowers but they have not yet finished flowering, the plant may drop its leaves if it does not get enough water.

Why doesn't my Lipstick plant flower?

The Lipstick plant is not very demanding, but in order for it to flower it needs a specific habitat. In order for the Lipstick plant to flower, it needs a location with a lot of indirect sunlight. The plant likes to be in an environment of 18 - 25 degrees.

Please note! When the Lipstick plant has just been received it can sometimes not bloom. The plant needs some time to adjust to its new environment.

How often does a Lipstick plant flower?

The Lipstick plant can flower several times a year. Usually it flowers at least once between spring and summer. The frequency of flowering depends on the habitat of the Lipstick plant. It is wise to remove dead flowers. This way you stimulate the plant to grow new flowers.

Can you propagate a Lipstick plant?

Yes, you certainly can. Check out our tips on how to propagate the Lipstick plant.