Aeschynanthus radicans
Overview
Uses: Hanging baskets, houseplant displays, patio containers in warm climates.
Benefits: Bright red tubular flowers with dark calyx bases that resemble lipstick emerging from a tube. Cascading stems create dramatic trailing displays.
USDA Hardiness Zones: 10–12 (grown as a houseplant in all zones)
Sun: Bright Indirect Light to Partial Shade
Life Cycle: Tender Perennial
Growth Habit: Trailing, Spreading — cascading stems that hang from containers.
Bloom Color: Red
Mature Height: 4–6 inches
Mature Width: 2–3 feet (trailing)
Bloom Season: Spring through Summer, with intermittent rebloom
Growth Rate: Moderate
Summary
Glossy evergreen foliage and vivid red blooms make this trailing tropical a standout for hanging baskets and bright interiors.
Aeschynanthus radicans, commonly known as Lipstick Plant, is valued for its cascading stems and distinctive tubular flowers that emerge from dark buds. Its trailing growth habit makes it especially well suited for elevated containers where stems can spill naturally over the edges.
Most often grown as a houseplant, it also performs well outdoors in USDA Zones 10–12. With proper light and consistent moisture, it produces repeated flushes of blooms throughout the warmer months.
Care
Aeschynanthus radicans Care
Provide bright indirect light for best flowering. A location near an east-facing window or filtered southern exposure works well. Avoid prolonged exposure to strong direct sun.
Water regularly during active growth, allowing the top portion of soil to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid saturated soil conditions.
This plant prefers moderate humidity and warm temperatures above 55°F. Ideal indoor temperatures range between 65–85°F.
Fertilize from early spring through late summer using a
slow release fertilizer
according to label directions.
Trim or pinch stems to encourage branching and maintain a fuller appearance. Remove spent blooms to encourage continued flowering.
Container Growing Notes: This plant is most commonly grown in containers or hanging baskets. Containers require attentive watering and must provide excellent drainage.
Plants hardy in the ground may require winter protection when grown in containers in colder zones.
Size
What Size is the Lipstick Plant for Sale Online?
Plants ship in a greenhouse-grade grow pot or hanging basket and are well rooted at the time of shipment. Each plant is sized appropriately for its container and ready for transplanting or display. For specific sizing details, please
contact us.
How Large Does Lipstick Plant Grow?
Mature plants typically grow 4–6 inches tall at the crown, with trailing stems reaching 2–3 feet in length when allowed to cascade.
Additional Information
What are some common names for this plant?
- Lipstick Plant
- Lipstick Vine
Is Lipstick Plant suitable for hanging baskets?
Yes. Its trailing stems make it ideal for elevated containers and hanging displays. Explore additional options in our
Hanging Baskets
collection.
Can it be grown outdoors?
It may be grown outdoors year-round in USDA Zones 10–12. In cooler climates, it is typically grown as a houseplant or seasonal patio plant. Browse similar warm-climate selections in our
Tropical Plants
collection.