Aeschynanthus longicaulis

Common Names

Lipstick Plant, Long-Stemmed Lipstick Plant, Long-Stemmed Basket Plant, Long-Stemmed Lipstick Vine

Summary

Aeschynanthus longicaulis is an epiphytic evergreen climber in the Gesneriaceae family native to southern China (Yunnan), Vietnam, Myanmar, Thailand, and Malaysia, growing as an epiphyte on trees with a shrubby habit and slender stems that can reach about 30–90 cm. Leaves are opposite, leathery, 6–12 cm long and 2–3 cm wide, dark green with lighter green marbling on the upper surface and a reddish-brown to purple underside, and showy tubular orange-red flowers appear in clusters at stem tips, creating a lipstick-like display ideal for vertical greenery, hanging baskets, and other ornamental settings.

In cultivation, bright indirect light is preferred with direct sun avoided; a very porous, well-draining substrate suited to epiphytes supports growth and moisture should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. Warm temperatures of 18–30°C and higher humidity aid performance, with misting or humidity trays helping maintain atmosphere. Watering is moderate, allowing the top soil to dry, and propagation is possible by stem cuttings or seeds; prune regularly to maintain shape. Not toxic to pets, the plant offers striking foliage alongside orange-red tubular flowers, making it suitable for vertical greenery, hanging baskets, interiorscapes, and container planting, with monthly fertilization during the growing period.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

12-35.5 inches

Spread

12 inches - 3 feet

Hardiness Zones

Zones 10-11b

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally partial shade

Soil Type

Well-draining loamy soil

Soil Drainage

Moist but well-drained soil.

Soil pH

6.0

Slightly acidic

Bloom Color

Red and Yellow

Bloom Time

Summer to Winter

Foliage Color

Dark green leaves with pale green or creamy white marbling on the upper surface; underside colors include reddish-brown, brown, or purplish-red to dark maroon.

Fall Foliage Color

Green and white

Leaf Lifecycle

Evergreen broadleaf

Growth Rate

Moderate growth rate

Seasons of Interest

Spring, Summer, and Winter

Propagation Methods

Stem cuttings, Leaf cuttings, Layering

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts bees, hummingbirds, and other pollinating insects