How to Grow Lipstick Plant Indoors

The lipstick plant, also known as Aeschynanthus, is a popular houseplant known for its vibrant red flowers that resemble a tube of lipstick. Native to the tropical regions of Southeast Asia, this plant can be easily grown indoors, bringing a touch of exotic beauty to your home. If you’re looking to add some color and life to your indoor space, here’s a guide on how to grow lipstick plant indoors.

Choosing the Right Location

Lipstick plants thrive in bright, indirect light. Choose a location near a window that receives filtered sunlight throughout the day. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves. If you don’t have a suitable spot with enough light, you can supplement with fluorescent grow lights placed about 6-12 inches above the plant.

Selecting the Right Container

When it comes to choosing a container for your lipstick plant, opt for one that has drainage holes at the bottom. This will prevent water from pooling and causing root rot. The size of the pot should be slightly larger than the root ball of the plant, allowing room for growth. Additionally, using a pot with unglazed clay or terracotta material will help improve moisture retention and airflow.

Soil Requirements

Lipstick plants prefer well-draining soil that retains moisture without becoming waterlogged. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and regular potting soil will create an ideal environment for the plant’s roots. The peat moss retains moisture while the perlite ensures adequate drainage.

Watering

Lipstick plants like to be kept evenly moist but not soggy. Water your plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. During summer months when temperatures are higher, you may need to water more frequently. However, be cautious not to overwater as it can lead to root rot. It’s always a good idea to check the moisture level by sticking your finger into the soil before watering.

Humidity

Being native to tropical regions, lipstick plants thrive in high humidity environments. To provide adequate humidity for your indoor plant, you can use a humidifier or place a tray filled with water near the plant. As the water evaporates, it will increase the humidity around the plant. Misting the leaves with water once or twice a week can also help boost humidity.

Fertilizing

Lipstick plants benefit from regular feeding during their active growing season, which is typically spring and summer. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every two weeks. During the dormant season, reduce fertilization to once a month or stop feeding altogether. Always follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging for proper dilution and application.

Pruning

Regular pruning is essential to maintain the compact and bushy growth of lipstick plants. Prune any leggy or overgrown stems to promote new growth and maintain a desirable shape. It’s best to prune during early spring before new growth begins. Make clean cuts just above a leaf node to encourage branching.

Propagation

Lipstick plants can be easily propagated through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem and make a clean cut just below a leaf node. Remove the lower leaves, leaving only two or three at the top. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder to promote root development. Plant the cutting in moist potting soil, cover it with a plastic bag or dome to create a mini greenhouse effect, and place it in a warm location with indirect light. Mist the cutting regularly to keep it moist until roots form, which usually takes about 4-6 weeks.

Common Pests and Problems

Lipstick plants are generally resistant to pests, but occasionally they may encounter issues with mealybugs or spider mites. These pests can be controlled by wiping the leaves with a cotton ball soaked in rubbing alcohol or by using insecticidal soap. Overwatering or underwatering can lead to problems such as root rot or leaf drop, so it’s important to maintain a proper watering schedule.

Conclusion

Growing lipstick plants indoors can be a rewarding experience, bringing a pop of color and tropical beauty to your living space. By providing the right lighting, proper watering, humidity, and occasional pruning, you can enjoy the vibrant red flowers and lush foliage of this exotic houseplant. Follow these tips and watch your lipstick plant thrive and become the envy of all your indoor plants.