The tropical and unique looks of the Lipstick plant are just one of the reasons we've chosen it as our Pet-Friendly Plant of the Month this May. The weather is starting to warm now, which means you're going to get the absolute best out of this plant as it starts and continues to bloom in beautiful shades of red all summer. It's also fairly easy to care for once you've struck the right balance of light and water - it's a lot of stunning plant for not a lot of hard work, which is what we love at Lazy Flora!
Native habitat
Lipstick plant is native to the tropical and humid rainforests of Southeast Asia.
Light and position in the home
Not too much and not too little is the key here. A bright spot not in full sun or full shade is ideal and a hanging basket is a particularly good pot for the cascading Aeschynanthus , or a window sill or ledge where it can hang and trail.
Foliage and flowers
Lipstick plant takes its name from the unique and vivid red blossoms which emerge from a dark maroon bud, reminiscent of a tube of red lipstick. Its vine has pointy, waxy leaves.
Pet friendly?
This plant is safe for homes with pets.
Temperature
This plant prefers warmer temperatures between 21-27 C - this is particularly important for those beautiful vivid blooms. Colder conditions will result in darker red leaves.
Watering
The Lipstick plant prefers to be a little on the dryer side. Water moderately and sparingly and be sure not to soak the soil. It also likes it a little on the humid side.
Did you know?
Once the weather warms in summer, you can hang your Lipstick plant outdoors in a partially shady location. The direct rays of the sun are stronger outdoors so just be sure not to place it in a location that’s too sunny. And be sure to bring it back inside if the temperature falls.
