A trailing Aeschynanthus japhrolepis Lipstick Plant with glossy green leaves and vivid red tubular flowers cascading from a hanging pot.

Aeschynanthus Japhrolepis 'Lipstick Plant'

Quick Care Tips

  • ☀️ Keep it in bright, indirect light for the best growth and flowering; avoid harsh direct sun and deep shade.
  • 💧 Water when the top 2–3cm of compost feels dry, keeping it lightly moist but never soggy. Reduce watering in winter.
  • 🌡 This tropical plant prefers warmth, steady temperatures and higher humidity, away from draughts.
  • 🪴 Use a free-draining potting mix and a pot with drainage holes, as wet roots can quickly lead to rot.

Overview

Aeschynanthus japhrolepis is a trailing tropical evergreen grown for its glossy green foliage and striking tubular flowers that emerge from darker buds, giving rise to the name Lipstick Plant. It is especially well suited to shelves and hanging pots, where its stems can spill elegantly over the edge. Like other Aeschynanthus, it is epiphytic in nature, so it appreciates airy conditions around the roots and a warm, humid atmosphere.

Light

Bright, filtered light is ideal. A position near an east or bright north-facing window usually works beautifully, while strong midday sun can scorch the leaves. Too little light often means fewer flowers and leggier growth.

Water

Allow the top layer of compost to dry slightly before watering again, then water thoroughly and let excess drain away. During the cooler months, ease back so the plant rests a little, but do not let it stay bone dry for long periods.

Humidity & Temperature

This plant is happiest in warm rooms with moderate to high humidity. Typical indoor temperatures are suitable, but avoid cold snaps, radiators and draughty windows or doors, as sudden stress can lead to leaf drop or poor flowering.

Soil & Potting

Choose a loose, well-draining houseplant mix, ideally with added bark, perlite or similar aerating material. A pot with drainage holes is essential, and it is usually best to keep the plant slightly snug rather than overpotting it.

Feeding

Feed with a balanced houseplant fertiliser through spring and summer when the plant is actively growing. Reduce or stop feeding in autumn and winter, when growth naturally slows.

Pruning & Maintenance

Trim back longer stems after flowering to keep the plant fuller and encourage fresh growth. Regular light grooming also helps maintain a neat shape and can support better blooming in the next season.

Propagation

Propagation is usually easiest from healthy stem cuttings taken in the growing season. Root them in a light propagation mix or water, then pot them on once roots are established.

Pet Safety

Lipstick plants are generally regarded as non-toxic to cats and dogs, though it is still wise to discourage chewing, as any houseplant material can cause mild tummy upset if eaten in quantity.

Common Issues

  • Yellowing leaves: Usually caused by overwatering or poor drainage; let the top of the compost dry a little more and check the pot drains freely.
  • No flowers: Most often due to insufficient light or a lack of feeding during the growing season; move it somewhere brighter and feed regularly in spring and summer.
  • Leaf drop: Often linked to cold draughts, sudden temperature swings or stress from inconsistent watering. Keep conditions stable and warm.