Curly Lipstick Plant Roots and Stems:
an In-depth Look

Curly lipstick plants (Aeschynanthus radicans) are a popular houseplant due to their striking red flowers and unique curly foliage. However, aside from their appearance, these plants also have interesting roots and stems that contribute to their overall health and growth.

In this article, we will take an in-depth look at the roots and stems of curly lipstick plants, including their structure, function, and care.

Roots

Curly lipstick plants have a relatively shallow root system that prefers well-draining soil. The roots are thin and fibrous, allowing them to absorb water and nutrients efficiently. These plants are also epiphytic, meaning that they can grow on other plants or surfaces without needing soil.

One interesting aspect of curly lipstick plant roots is their ability to grow adventitious roots. Adventitious roots are roots that grow from non-root tissue, such as stems or leaves. Curly lipstick plants can develop adventitious roots along their stems or even from the base of their leaves if they come into contact with a suitable surface.

These adventitious roots serve several functions. First, they help the plant anchor itself to its substrate or support structure. Second, they provide additional avenues for water and nutrient uptake. Lastly, they can help the plant spread and propagate by producing new shoots from the rooted stem.

Stems

Curly lipstick plant stems are another fascinating aspect of this plant’s anatomy. The stems are thin, vine-like, and can grow up to several feet long. They have a distinctive curly shape due to the way they grow in a spiral pattern.

The curly shape of the stems serves two primary functions. First, it allows the plant to climb and attach itself to supports or other plants easily. Second, it maximizes the amount of light exposure for the leaves by positioning them at various angles towards the light source.

Curly lipstick plants can also produce lateral shoots from their stems. These shoots can develop into new vines or be used for propagation by rooting them in water or soil.

Care

Proper care of curly lipstick plant roots and stems is essential for the plant’s overall health and growth. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Soil: Use well-draining soil, such as a mix of potting soil and perlite or sand. Avoid overwatering, as soggy soil can lead to root rot.
• Water: Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Water thoroughly, allowing excess water to drain out of the pot’s bottom.
• Light: Curly lipstick plants prefer bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves.
• Temperature: These plants prefer temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C). Avoid exposing them to cold drafts or extreme heat.
• Fertilizer: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer.

FAQ

Can I propagate my curly lipstick plant by stem cuttings?

Yes, you can propagate curly lipstick plants by taking stem cuttings. Cut a 4-6 inch section of stem with at least two nodes (where leaves attach to the stem). Remove the lower leaves and place the cutting in water or well-draining soil. Keep the cutting moist and in bright, indirect light until roots develop.

Why are my curly lipstick plant’s leaves turning yellow?

Yellow leaves on curly lipstick plants can indicate several issues, including overwatering, underwatering, nutrient deficiencies, or pests. Check the soil moisture level, adjust watering as needed, and fertilize the plant regularly. If pests are present, treat them with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

How often should I repot my curly lipstick plant?

Curly lipstick plants prefer slightly crowded roots, so they do not need to be repotted often. Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant has outgrown its current pot. Use a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one and fresh soil.