Why Are Your Black Lipstick Plant Leaves Turning Yellow:
Causes and Solutions

Black lipstick plant, also known as Aeschynanthus radicans, is a popular houseplant that is loved for its dark green foliage and bright red flowers. However, if you notice that the leaves on your black lipstick plant are turning yellow, it can be concerning. Yellow leaves are a sign of stress or disease, and if left untreated, they can eventually lead to the death of the plant. In this article, we explore the causes of yellowing leaves on black lipstick plants and provide solutions to help you save your beloved plant.

Causes of Yellowing Leaves on Black Lipstick Plants

Overwatering

One of the most common causes of yellowing leaves on black lipstick plants is overwatering. This happens when you water your plant too frequently or when the soil doesn’t drain properly. Overwatering leads to waterlogging, which deprives the roots of oxygen and causes them to rot. As the roots die, they can no longer absorb nutrients from the soil, leading to yellowing leaves.

Underwatering

Underwatering is another common cause of yellowing leaves on black lipstick plants. When you don’t water your plant enough, the soil becomes dry and compacted, making it hard for the roots to absorb water and nutrients. As a result, the leaves start turning yellow and may eventually fall off.

Lack of Light

Black lipstick plants require bright but indirect sunlight to thrive. If your plant is not getting enough light, its leaves may turn yellow and droop. This happens because the plant is not able to produce enough energy through photosynthesis to support healthy growth.

Pests

Pests such as spider mites and mealybugs can infest black lipstick plants, causing yellowing leaves. These pests feed on the sap of the plant, which reduces its ability to absorb nutrients and water from the soil. As a result, the leaves start turning yellow and may even develop brown spots.

Solutions for Yellowing Leaves on Black Lipstick Plants

Watering

To prevent overwatering, ensure that you water your black lipstick plant only when the soil is dry to the touch. Make sure that the pot has drainage holes at the bottom to allow excess water to drain out. If you suspect that your plant has root rot due to overwatering, repot it in fresh soil and trim off any dead or brown roots.

To prevent underwatering, make sure that you water your black lipstick plant regularly but not too frequently. The frequency of watering depends on factors such as humidity levels, temperature, and light intensity. A good rule of thumb is to water your plant once a week or when the top inch of soil feels dry.

Light

Black lipstick plants require bright but indirect sunlight to thrive. Make sure that your plant is placed in a location where it can get at least six hours of bright but indirect sunlight each day. You can also use artificial grow lights if your plant is not getting enough natural light.

Pests

If you notice pests on your black lipstick plant, isolate it from other plants immediately to prevent infestation. You can remove small infestations by wiping the affected leaves with a damp cloth or spraying them with insecticidal soap. For larger infestations, use a systemic insecticide that targets pests such as spider mites and mealybugs.

FAQ

Q: Can I prune my black lipstick plant?

A: Yes, pruning can help promote healthy growth and prevent diseases such as root rot. Use clean pruning shears to remove any dead or yellowing leaves or stems.

Q: Can I propagate my black lipstick plant?

A: Yes, you can propagate black lipstick plants through stem cuttings or division. Stem cuttings should be taken from healthy stems with at least two nodes and placed in water until they develop roots before planting in soil.

Q: Why are my black lipstick plant leaves drooping?

A: Drooping leaves are a sign that your plant is not getting enough water or light. Check the soil moisture levels and adjust your watering schedule accordingly. If your plant is not getting enough light, move it to a brighter location.

In conclusion, yellowing leaves on black lipstick plants can be caused by various factors such as overwatering, underwatering, lack of light, or pests. By identifying the cause of yellowing leaves early and taking appropriate measures such as adjusting watering schedules or treating pests promptly, you can help save your beloved black lipstick plant from dying.