What Causes Curly Lipstick Plant Leaves to Curl?

Lipstick plant (Aeschynanthus radicans) is a popular houseplant known for its lush green foliage and showy red flowers. However, sometimes the leaves of the lipstick plant start to curl, which can be concerning to the plant owner. In this article, we will explore the causes of curly lipstick plant leaves and how to fix them.

Overwatering

One of the most common reasons for curly lipstick plant leaves is overwatering. When a plant is overwatered, it can lead to root rot, which affects the plant’s ability to absorb water and nutrients properly. As a result, the leaves start to curl, wilt, and turn yellow.

To fix this issue, reduce the frequency of watering and allow the topsoil to dry out before watering again. Also, make sure that the pot has proper drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating at the bottom.

Underwatering

Another reason for curly lipstick plant leaves is underwatering. When a plant doesn’t get enough water, it tries to conserve it by curling its leaves inward. The leaves may also turn brown or crispy at the edges.

To fix this issue, water your lipstick plant regularly and make sure that the soil stays moist but not soggy. You can also mist the leaves with water to increase humidity levels around the plant.

Low Humidity

Lipstick plants are tropical plants that thrive in high humidity levels. When the air is too dry, it can cause the leaves to curl and become brittle. This is because plants lose moisture through transpiration in low humidity conditions.

To fix this issue, increase humidity levels around your lipstick plant by placing a humidifier nearby or misting the leaves with water regularly. You can also place a tray of water near the plant or group it with other plants to create a microclimate with higher humidity.

Pests

Curly lipstick plant leaves can also be a sign of pest infestation. Common pests that attack lipstick plants include mealybugs, spider mites, and thrips. These pests feed on the sap of the plant, causing the leaves to curl and distort.

To fix this issue, inspect your lipstick plant for any signs of pest infestation, such as webbing or sticky residue on the leaves. You can remove pests manually with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or use an insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.

Nutrient Deficiency

Lipstick plants need adequate nutrients to grow and thrive. When a plant doesn’t get enough essential nutrients, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, it can lead to curling leaves, stunted growth, and yellowing.

To fix this issue, fertilize your lipstick plant regularly with a balanced fertilizer that contains all essential nutrients. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for dosage and frequency of application.

Disease

Curly lipstick plant leaves can also be a sign of disease. Common diseases that affect lipstick plants include fungal infections, bacterial infections, and viral infections. These diseases can cause leaf curling, spotting, wilting, and discoloration.

To fix this issue, identify the type of disease affecting your lipstick plant and treat it accordingly. Fungal infections can be treated with fungicides, while bacterial infections may require pruning affected parts of the plant. Viral infections are difficult to treat and may require removing the entire plant to prevent spreading to other plants.

FAQ

How often should I water my lipstick plant?

Water your lipstick plant when the topsoil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering or letting the soil dry out completely.

How do I increase humidity levels around my lipstick plant?

You can increase humidity levels by placing a humidifier nearby, misting the leaves with water regularly, placing a tray of water near the plant, or grouping it with other plants.

How do I fertilize my lipstick plant?

Use a balanced fertilizer that contains all essential nutrients and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for dosage and frequency of application.

Can I save my lipstick plant if it has a viral infection?

Viral infections are difficult to treat, and there is no cure. The best course of action is to remove the entire plant to prevent spreading to other plants.