How to care for an Aeschynanthus (Lipstick Plant)

What kind of light does an Aeschynanthus need?

Aeschynanthus, or Lipstick Plant, needs plenty of bright indirect light.

Direct sunlight can scorn the plant's leaves.

How often should I water my Lipstick Plant?

When watering your Lipstick Plant, make sure the top 2 inches are dry before watering again.

In the spring and summer, keep the soil lightly moist but never wet or soggy.

What type of fertilizer should I use on my Lipstick Plant?

Fertilize your Lipstick Plant every month in spring and summer with a liquid fertilizer that's diluted with water.

This helps your plant grow and bloom.

Do I need to prune back my Lipstick Plant?

Pruning back longer stems of your Lipstick Plant promotes bushier growth and more blooms.

Pruning should be done in the spring and summer.

Remove any dead or wilted flowers to encourage re-blooming.

What is the best soil mixture for growing an Aeschynanthus?

The best soil mixture for growing an Aeschynanthus is a combination of 1/4 sphagnum moss, 1/4 perlite, and 1/2 general potting soil.

This keeps the soil airy and light for a long time.

How often should you repot an Aeschynanthus?

It is recommended that you repot your Aeschynanthus (Lipstick Plant) every two to three years, or when it starts to outgrow its pot.

Make sure to select a pot with plenty of drainage holes and use a well-draining soil mixture for the best results.

What temperature range is ideal for an Aeschynanthus?

An Aeschynanthus prefers temperatures between 65°F-75°F (18°C-24°C).

Temperatures below 50°F (10°C) will cause damage to your plant so make sure to keep it warm.

What is the ideal humidity range for an Aeschynanthus?

The ideal humidity range for an Aeschynanthus (or lipstick plant) is between 50-70%.

Humidity helps to keep the plant healthy and encourages blooms.

If the humidity is too low, you can mist the leaves with water or use a humidifier.

How do I propagate a Lipstick plant?

Propagating can be done by stem cuttings.

Take a stem cutting of 4-6 inches and remove the bottom leaves.

Place it in moist vermiculite with perlite.

Place the pot in indirect sunlight, and water lightly as needed.

What are common problems for a Lipstick plant?

Common problems for a Lipstick plant include leaf drop due to too much direct sunlight or too little humidity, wilting leaves caused by under-watering, and yellow leaves due to over-fertilizing.

What are common pests on a Lipstick plant?

Common pests on lipstick plants include aphids, mealybugs, scale, whiteflies, and spider mites.

These pests feed on the sap of the plant, resulting in weakened growth and yellowing leaves.

To get rid of these pests use a combination of insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.