The first time I encountered the lipstick plant I remember wondering why it was called that. Looking the plant over, I wasn’t quite sure. Was it the leaves? It wasn’t until I saw the blooms that it clicked. The lipstick plant produces little clusters of dark flowers that each has a bright red center that protrudes—just like a tube of lipstick. These plants are pretty incredible, boasting thick, waxy leaves and a fairly easy-going temperament. With proper light, humidity, and care not to over-water, the lipstick plant makes a wonderful, regularly blooming houseplant.
Another interesting fun-fact is that the lipstick plant hails from South Asia and is actually grown as an epiphyte—which means that it attaches itself to other structures (like trees) and grows on them. Amazing, right? The lipstick plant makes a great hanging plant as it’s naturally trailing. However, it does just fine in an upright pot as well. If you want your lipstick plant to bloom as much as possible, you’ll want to give it the absolute brightest indirect light you have.
Grab any size curly lipstick plant for 20% off all this week (August 11 – August 17). You can also enter to win this plant three different ways: in store, or online through our Instagram and Facebook accounts. Winners must be able to pick up in store.
Quick Tips for your Lipstick Plant
- Water once the first few inches of soil has dried
- You can actually stick your fingers in the soil to determine how dry the plant has become
- If you notice a wrinkling on the leaves of your plant, this is a sign that it would probably like a drink
- This plant is tropical, so it prefers a higher humidity climate
- If the location you are thinking about is dry, consider supplementing with a humidifier or a pebble tray
- Bright indirect light is best
- This plant can tolerate some medium light situations, however, it may not bloom as readily as it would in really bright light
- Just be sure your plant is not getting too much direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves
- Use a well-draining potting mix for planting
- Turn your plant periodically to get even growth
- This plant is considered pet friendly by the ASPCA
Looking for more? Check out some of our other plant posts on our blog.