Though often referred to as a vine, the Lipstick plant is not a natural climber, but more of a trailing plant. The best show indoors is when suspended from high in a hanging pot. This way the flowers can be seen more effectively.
They can also be persuaded to grow up a small trellis - but will need tying in to do so. Its natural habit is 'floppy'!
The Plant: Pouting scarlet flowers amidst bronze-green fleshy leaves, an epiphytic plant from South-East Asia including the Indonesian Islands. The flower buds are the source of the common name - Lipstick Plant.
Aeschyanthus needs good filtered light, but not in direct sun shine. Good light is necessary for flowering for it will rarely flower well if grown in a darker position of the room. Well-draining, loose open compost, regular watering, warmth and high humidity is essential.
Feed through the growing season, but reduce watering in winter. Avoid winter
chill. Remove dead flowers. Trim stems to tidy plant in spring or autumn. .
Good for bright cheerful colour, can trail from hanging baskets
or be trained to climb up short wire frame.
The lipstick plant (Aeschynanthus radicans) is a popular houseplant known for its vibrant, tube-shaped flowers. However, like any other plant, it can encounter a few problems. Here's how to identify and solve common issues.
Signs: Yellowing leaves, wilting, and root rot are common signs of overwatering.
Solution: Reduce your watering schedule. Lipstick plants prefer their soil to dry out partially between waterings. If root rot has set in, you may need to repot the plant in fresh, well-draining soil.
Signs: Brown, crispy leaf edges, drooping or wilting, and slow growth indicate underwatering.
Solution: Increase your watering frequency but ensure the plant isn't sitting in water. It's best to water thoroughly until water runs out of the drainage holes, then allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again.
Signs: Yellow or pale leaves, stunted growth, and fewer flowers can point to nutrient deficiencies.
Solution: Feed your lipstick plant with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall). Follow the package instructions for dilution rates.
Signs: Look out for tiny insects like aphids, spider mites, or scale. They may cause discoloration, sticky residue on leaves, or a general decline in plant health.
Solution: Use a soft cloth to wipe off pests or treat the plant with a mild insecticidal soap. In severe cases, you might need to use a systemic insecticide.
Signs: Fungal diseases can cause spots or patches on leaves, while bacterial diseases can result in wilting or rot.
Solution: Improve ventilation around the plant, avoid overwatering, and remove any affected plant parts. Fungicides or bactericides may be necessary for severe infections.
Lipstick plants prefer bright, indirect light, high humidity, and temperatures between 70-85°F. They enjoy well-draining soil— a mix of peat moss, perlite, and potting soil works well.
Pruning: Regular pruning helps promote bushier growth. Prune in early spring before the growing season begins, cutting back up to one-third of the plant.
Repotting: Repot your lipstick plant every 2-3 years, or when it becomes root-bound. Spring is the best time to repot. Choose a pot one size larger than the current one and use fresh, well-draining potting mix.
Remember, every plant is unique and may not follow exact guidelines. Observe your lipstick plant closely and adjust care as needed. With proper attention and care, your lipstick plant will thrive, providing you with a stunning display of unique, vibrant flowers.
Check for aphids on the younger growing part in particular. If the plant seems generally jaded, then close inspection of the stem and leaf joints for mealybug, and under the leaves for scale insect.
The lipstick plant (Aeschynanthus radicans) is a beautiful, tropical vine known for its bright, tubular flowers that resemble a tube of lipstick. Here's how you can propagate it using three different methods: air layering, stem cutting, and leaf cutting.
Air layering is a propagation method that involves inducing root growth on the stem while it's still attached to the parent plant.
Steps:Stem cutting involves removing a part of the parent plant and allowing it to root independently.
Steps:Leaf cutting involves rooting a leaf or a section of a leaf.
Steps:Remember to always use clean tools when propagating to prevent the spread of disease, and be patient - propagation can take time. With these techniques, you can easily multiply your lipstick plant collection and share them with others. Happy planting!
Easy to take softwood cuttings in spring and semi ripe cuttings later in the year. Can also be rooted by layering methods.
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