Twisted Lipstick Plant Seeds:
Guide to Storing, Sowing and Germination

The twisted lipstick plant (Aeschynanthus radicans) is a beautiful and unique flowering plant that is native to Southeast Asia. It gets its name from the twisted shape of its tubular flowers, which resemble tubes of lipstick. If you are lucky enough to have a twisted lipstick plant in your garden, you may be wondering how to propagate it from seeds. In this guide, we will take you through the process of storing, sowing, and germinating twisted lipstick plant seeds.

Storing Twisted Lipstick Plant Seeds

To successfully propagate twisted lipstick plants from seeds, it is important to start with fresh and viable seeds. You can collect the seeds from mature fruits of your existing lipstick plant or purchase them from a reputable seed supplier. Once you have the seeds, it is crucial to store them properly to maintain their viability.

1. Harvesting Seeds: Allow the flowers on your twisted lipstick plant to wither and dry out naturally. Once the flowers have dried, they will produce small seed pods. Carefully remove these seed pods and open them to extract the seeds. The seeds are tiny and may be black or brown in color.

2. Cleaning Seeds: Before storing the seeds, it is recommended to clean them to remove any debris or pulp. Gently rinse the seeds under running water and dry them thoroughly using a paper towel.

3. Storage Containers: Choose airtight containers such as small glass jars or plastic bags for storing the seeds. These containers will prevent moisture and air from entering and damaging the seeds.

4. Moisture Control: Place a desiccant packet or some dry rice in the storage container with the seeds to absorb any excess moisture that could lead to mold or rot.

5. Cool and Dark Location: Store the containers in a cool and dark location, such as a refrigerator or a cool basement. The ideal temperature for storing twisted lipstick plant seeds is between 40-50°F (4-10°C).

By following these storage guidelines, your twisted lipstick plant seeds can remain viable for up to two years.

Sowing Twisted Lipstick Plant Seeds

Once you are ready to sow the twisted lipstick plant seeds, follow these steps to give them the best chance of germination:

1. Seed Starting Mix: Prepare a well-draining seed starting mix by combining equal parts of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite. This mix will provide the right balance of moisture retention and drainage for the seeds.

2. Containers: Use small pots or seed trays with drainage holes for sowing the seeds. Fill the containers with the seed starting mix, leaving about 1/2 inch (1.3 cm) of space at the top.

3. Moisten the Mix: Before sowing the seeds, moisten the seed starting mix thoroughly. Water should be able to drain freely from the bottom of the container.

4. Sowing Seeds: Sprinkle the twisted lipstick plant seeds evenly over the surface of the moistened seed starting mix. Do not bury the seeds as they require light to germinate.

5. Covering Seeds: Gently press down on the seeds with your fingertips to ensure good seed-to-soil contact. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of vermiculite or fine sand to help retain moisture.

6. Misting: Mist the surface of the soil lightly with water to settle it and provide initial moisture for germination.

7. Covering Containers: Place a clear plastic dome or plastic wrap over the containers to create a humid environment for the seeds. This will help accelerate germination.

8. Maintain Moisture: Check the moisture level in the containers regularly and mist as needed to keep the seed starting mix moist but not waterlogged.

9. Germination Time: Twisted lipstick plant seeds usually germinate within 1-2 weeks, although it may take longer in some cases.

Germination of Twisted Lipstick Plant Seeds

Once the seeds have germinated and tiny seedlings have appeared, it is important to provide them with the right conditions for growth:

1. Light: Place the containers in a location where the seedlings will receive bright but indirect sunlight. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight as this can scorch the delicate seedlings.

2. Temperature: Maintain a temperature range of 70-80°F (21-27°C) for optimal growth. Use a heating mat if necessary to provide consistent warmth.

3. Transplanting: When the seedlings have grown their first true leaves, they can be carefully transplanted into individual pots filled with a well-draining potting mix.

4. Watering: Water the seedlings regularly, allowing the top inch (2.5 cm) of soil to dry out between waterings. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.

5. Fertilizing: Once the seedlings are well-established, you can start fertilizing them with a balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength every two weeks during the growing season.

With proper care and patience, your twisted lipstick plant seedlings will grow into beautiful and vibrant plants that will bring a touch of exotic beauty to your garden or indoor space.

In conclusion, propagating twisted lipstick plants from seeds can be a rewarding experience. By following the steps outlined in this guide for storing, sowing, and germinating twisted lipstick plant seeds, you can successfully grow new plants and expand your collection of these stunning flowering plants.