succulent lips plant Aeschynanthus radicans Curly - Curly Red Lipstick - Trailing Plants

succulent lips plant Aeschynanthus radicans Curly - Curly Red Lipstick - Trailing PlantsDescription Light Soil Water Hardiness The Curly Red Lipstick Plant, scientifically known as Aeschynanthus radicans 'Curly', is a unique and captivating cultivar of the common Lipstick Plant. It is a tropical evergreen plant in the Gesneriaceae family, the same family as African Violets and Gloxinias. This plant is named for its tubular, red flowers that emerge from a dark, calyx like sheath, resembling a tube of lipstick. The "Curly" variety is

• Description
• Light/Soil/Water
• Hardiness

• The Curly Red Lipstick Plant, scientifically known as Aeschynanthus radicans 'Curly', is a unique and captivating cultivar of the common Lipstick Plant. It is a tropical evergreen plant in the Gesneriaceae family, the same family as African Violets and Gloxinias. This plant is named for its tubular, red flowers that emerge from a dark, calyx-like sheath, resembling a tube of lipstick. The "Curly" variety is particularly prized for its contorted, twisting foliage, which gives it a distinctive and sculptural appearance.
  
  The species Aeschynanthus radicans is native to the tropical and subtropical rainforests of Southeast Asia, including countries like Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines. In its natural habitat, it grows as an epiphyte, meaning it grows on other plants (such as trees) rather than in the soil, using them for support.
  
  The flowers are the star attraction of the Curly Red Lipstick Plant. They are tubular and a vibrant, fire-engine red, often with a yellow or orange throat. Before they fully open, they emerge from a deep burgundy or dark purple calyx, which creates the striking "lipstick in a tube" effect that gives the plant its name. The flowers bloom most profusely in the spring and summer, and with proper care, they can appear intermittently throughout the year.
  
  *** Just a friendly reminder that flowering in houseplants is a natural process with periods of bloom and dormancy. The plant you are selecting may not have flowers at this time, but with the right conditions, it will flower again, resembling the image shown. 
• This plant thrives in bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch its leaves, so it's best placed near an east- or north-facing window. A few hours of morning sun is generally well-tolerated and can even encourage more prolific blooming.
  
  Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. The plant prefers to dry out slightly between waterings. Reduce watering frequency in the winter when the plant's growth slows down. High humidity is a plus, so regular misting or placing it on a pebble tray with water is beneficial.
  
  Use a well-draining, airy potting mix. An orchid mix or a mixture of peat moss, perlite, and coarse sand works well. The key is to prevent the roots from sitting in soggy soil.
  
  The plant prefers temperatures between 65°F and 85°F (18°C - 29°C). It is sensitive to cold drafts and temperatures below 60°F (15°C) can cause damage.
  
  The Curly Red Lipstick Plant is non-toxic to cats, dogs, and other pets, making it a safe choice for households with animals.
  
  
  

• USDA Zone 10-11

  USDA Zone 9b: to -3.8 °C (25 °F)

  USDA Zone 10a: to -1.1 °C (30 °F)

  USDA Zone 10b: to 1.7 °C (35 °F)

  USDA Zone 11: above 4.5 °C (40 °F)