Contents
Description
Aeschynanthus Acuminatus, also known as the Lipstick Plant, is a tropical plant native to Southeast Asia. The plant is characterized by its bright red tubular flowers that bloom in clusters along its stems. The Lipstick Plant is a favorite among indoor gardeners due to its ease of care and striking appearance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Gesneriaceae |
| Genus | Aeschynanthus |
| Species | Acuminatus |
Appearance
The Lipstick Plant has long, slender stems that can reach up to 2 feet in length. Its leaves are glossy and green, with a slightly wavy edge. The flowers of the Lipstick Plant are bright red and grow in clusters at the ends of the stems. The flowers are tubular in shape, with a flared edge, and grow up to 2 inches in length.
Care Guide
To grow and care for the Lipstick Plant, follow these guidelines:
Water
The Lipstick Plant prefers evenly moist soil. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Fertilize the Lipstick Plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
Soil
The Lipstick Plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite is ideal.
Sunlight
The Lipstick Plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid placing the plant in direct sunlight, as this can scorch its leaves.
Hardiness Zones
The Lipstick Plant is hardy in USDA zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Lipstick Plant is susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. To prevent infestations, keep the plant clean and free of debris. If an infestation occurs, treat the plant with an insecticidal soap or neem oil. The Lipstick Plant is also susceptible to root rot, which can be caused by overwatering.
Habitat
The Lipstick Plant is native to Southeast Asia, where it grows in tropical rainforests. In its natural habitat, the Lipstick Plant grows as an epiphyte, meaning it grows on other plants rather than in soil.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Lipstick Plant?
A: Water your Lipstick Plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Q: What kind of soil does the Lipstick Plant prefer?
A: The Lipstick Plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Q: What kind of fertilizer should I use for my Lipstick Plant?
A: Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
Q: What hardiness zones is the Lipstick Plant suitable for?
A: The Lipstick Plant is hardy in USDA zones 10-12.
Related Plants
- Aeschynanthus Longicaulis
- Aeschynanthus Radicans
- Aeschynanthus Speciosus
- Aeschynanthus Twisted Lip
References
- “Aeschynanthus Acuminatus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 11, 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a458.
- “Lipstick Plant Care: How to Care for Aeschynanthus Radicans.” Epic Gardening. Accessed August 11, 2021. https://www.epicgardening.com/lipstick-plant/.
- “Aeschynanthus Acuminatus – Lipstick Plant.” Houseplant Central. Accessed August 11, 2021. https://houseplantcentral.com/aeschynanthus-acuminatus-lipstick-plant/.
