Lipstick Twister
(Aeschynanthus radicans)
Beginner - Intermediate: The foliage is fairly easygoing. Getting spectacular blooms requires a little more attention to light and care.
Personality
The curly-haired show-off of the hanging basket. Twisting vines, glossy leaves, and brilliant red flowers - it clearly received the memo that subtlety was optional.
Water Needs
Allow the top inch or so of soil to dry between waterings, then water thoroughly. It appreciates consistent moisture during active growth but doesn't want soggy roots.
Key indicator: Limp or slightly wrinkled foliage may indicate thirst.
Light Needs
Prefers bright, indirect light. A little gentle morning sun can encourage flowering, but avoid harsh afternoon rays.
Think: "Give me good lighting. I have a performance scheduled."
Pet Safe?
Yes. Lipstick Plants are generally considered non-toxic to cats and dogs.
Things to watch for
Overwatering, low light, cold drafts, mealybugs and flower refusal when conditions aren't bright enough.
Common questions
Q. Why isn't mine flowering?
A. Usually not enough light.
Q. Can I put it in a hanging basket?
A. Absolutely. That's where those twisting vines really shine.
Q. Should I prune it?
A. Yes! Occasional pruning encourages branching and fuller growth.
Q. Does the flower really look like lipstick?
A. It really does.
Q. Was "Twister" named because of those crazy leaves?
A. Pretty much-and they're delightfully unruly.
Plant Lore & fun facts
Lipstick Plants are tropical epiphytes, meaning that in nature they often grow upon trees rather than rooting directly into the forest floor.
Their name comes from their tubular red flowers emerging from darker buds-looking remarkably like lipstick twisting out of its tube. Nature apparently had a cosmetics phase.
popular varieties
🌿 Twister - Curled foliage with a wonderfully wild trailing habit.
🌿 Mona Lisa - Classic glossy foliage with striking red blooms.
🌿 Black Pagoda - Beautifully patterned foliage with a more exotic appearance.
🌿 Variegated Lipstick Plant - Cream-and-green foliage paired with colorful blooms.