What Are the Different Types of Curly Lipstick Plant

Curly lipstick plants, also known as Aeschynanthus radicans, are a popular houseplant due to their beautiful curly leaves and bright red flowers. They are native to Southeast Asia and are part of the Gesneriaceae family. There are several types of curly lipstick plants, each with distinct characteristics that make them unique.

1. Aeschynanthus radicans

The most common type of curly lipstick plant is the Aeschynanthus radicans. It has curly, glossy leaves that are around 2-3 inches long and 1 inch wide. The leaves are a deep green color and have a slightly wavy edge. The flowers of the Aeschynanthus radicans are bright red, trumpet-shaped, and grow in clusters at the end of long stalks.

2. Aeschynanthus pulcher

Another popular type of curly lipstick plant is the Aeschynanthus pulcher. This plant has leaves that are more elongated than the Aeschynanthus radicans, with a length of around 4 inches. The leaves are dark green with a slightly curled edge. The flowers of the Aeschynanthus pulcher are bright orange-red and grow in clusters at the end of long stalks.

3. Aeschynanthus speciosus

The Aeschynanthus speciosus is another type of curly lipstick plant that is less common than the previous two. It has larger leaves, around 5-6 inches long, that are deep green with a wavy edge. The flowers of the Aeschynanthus speciosus are bright red and grow in clusters at the end of long stalks.

4. Aeschynanthus micranthus

The Aeschynanthus micranthus is a unique type of curly lipstick plant with small, curled leaves that are only around 1 inch long. The leaves are a bright green color and have a slightly wavy edge. The flowers of the Aeschynanthus micranthus are bright red and grow in clusters at the end of long stalks.

5. Aeschynanthus parviflorus

The Aeschynanthus parviflorus is a type of curly lipstick plant that has small, curled leaves that are around 1-2 inches long. The leaves are a bright green color and have a wavy edge. The flowers of the Aeschynanthus parviflorus are bright red and grow in clusters at the end of long stalks.

How to Care for Curly Lipstick Plants

Curly lipstick plants are relatively easy to care for, making them a great choice for beginner plant enthusiasts. Here are some tips on how to care for your curly lipstick plant:

Light

Curly lipstick plants prefer bright, indirect light. They should not be exposed to direct sunlight as it can burn their leaves.

Watering

Curly lipstick plants should be watered when the top inch of soil is dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so make sure to allow the soil to dry out between waterings.

Humidity

Curly lipstick plants prefer high humidity levels. You can increase humidity by placing a humidifier near the plant or by misting the leaves with water.

Fertilizer

Curly lipstick plants should be fertilized once a month during their growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer.

Pruning

Pruning your curly lipstick plant will help promote new growth and keep the plant looking neat and tidy. You can prune back any leggy stems or remove any dead or yellowing leaves.

FAQ

Can curly lipstick plants grow in low light?

While curly lipstick plants prefer bright, indirect light, they can tolerate lower light conditions. Just make sure to avoid direct sunlight.

Can I propagate my curly lipstick plant?

Yes, you can propagate your curly lipstick plant by taking stem cuttings and rooting them in water or soil.

How often should I water my curly lipstick plant?

Curly lipstick plants should be watered when the top inch of soil is dry. This can vary depending on factors such as humidity and temperature, so it’s important to check the soil regularly.

Why is my curly lipstick plant not flowering?

Curly lipstick plants require bright, indirect light and high humidity levels to flower. If your plant is not getting enough light or humidity, it may not flower. Additionally, if you are over-fertilizing your plant, it may produce more foliage than flowers.