Lipstick Vine
Aeschynanthus pulcher
Aeschynanthus pulcher is a trailing epiphytic vine that produces vivid scarlet flowers emerging from deep maroon calyces, looking exactly like a freshly opened tube of lipstick. Hang it in a basket where its cascading stems can show off, and it will reward you with blooms from spring through fall. It stays non-toxic to pets and people, which makes it a rare guilt-free choice for cat and dog households.
How to grow Lipstick Vine
bright indirect light (3-6 feet
Water when the top inch
60-80%
75-85°F
Well-draining mix that mimics epiphytic
Stem tip cuttings in spring or summer.
Root rot from overwatering is the main issue.
Fun Facts
The genus name Aeschynanthus comes from Greek words meaning 'ashamed flower,' while the species name pulcher means 'beautiful' or 'pretty' -- quite the identity crisis.
Pet safe
Non-toxic to humans, cats, and dogs. One of the safer houseplant choices for pet-friendly homes.
Sources
- Aeschynanthus pulcher - Plants of the World Online, Kew Science (opens in new tab)Botanical Garden
- Aeschynanthus Lipstick Vine Info: How To Care For A Lipstick Plant - Gardening Know How (opens in new tab)Reference
- Aeschynanthus Lipstick Vine Info: How To Care For A Lipstick Plant - Gardening Know How (opens in new tab)Reference
- Aeschynanthus pulcher - Gesneriad Reference Web (opens in new tab)Reference
- Aeschynanthus pulcher - Gesneriad Reference Web (opens in new tab)Reference
- Aeschynanthus pulcher - Plants of the World Online, Kew Science (opens in new tab)Reference
- Aeschynanthus pulcher - Wikipedia (opens in new tab)Reference
- Aeschynanthus pulcher - Wikipedia (opens in new tab)Reference
- How To Care For A Lipstick Plant (Aeschynanthus Radicans) - Smart Garden Guide (opens in new tab)Reference
- How To Care For A Lipstick Plant (Aeschynanthus Radicans) - Smart Garden Guide (opens in new tab)Reference