Lipstick Rasta
Aeschynanthus radicans 'Rasta'
Care Difficulty
Easy. A rewarding trailing houseplant that thrives with bright light and consistent care.
Light Requirements
Bright, indirect light. A few hours of gentle morning sun will encourage flowering, but avoid intense afternoon sun that can scorch the leaves.
Water Requirements
Water when the top 1 to 2 inches of soil feels dry. Water thoroughly, then allow excess water to drain away. Reduce watering slightly during the winter months.
Humidity
Prefers moderate to high humidity (50 to 70%). It adapts well to average household humidity but will produce its best growth and blooms with added humidity.
Pet Safety
Non-toxic to cats and dogs.
Growth Speed
Moderate. Produces long, trailing vines that become fuller with regular pruning.
Expected Mature Size
- Height: 8 to 12 inches
- Trail Length: 18 to 36 inches
Pot Size
Repot every 2 to 3 years or when the roots become crowded. Prefers being slightly root-bound.
Where it Grows Best
Indoors in bright, indirect light with temperatures between 65 and 80°F (18 to 27°C). Perfect for hanging baskets, shelves, or plant stands where the curly vines can cascade.
Perfect for…
- Hanging baskets
- Bright kitchens and bathrooms
- Pet-friendly homes
- Beginner plant owners
- Tropical plant collections
- Anyone looking for a unique flowering houseplant
Common Mistakes
- Overwatering, leading to root rot.
- Growing in low light, which reduces flowering.
- Allowing the soil to remain constantly wet.
- Exposing the plant to cold drafts or temperatures below 60°F (16°C).
- Repotting too often, as it flowers best when slightly root-bound.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it called Lipstick Rasta?
The plant has tightly curled, twisted leaves that resemble dreadlocks, while its bright red tubular flowers emerge from dark buds that look like a tube of lipstick.
How often does it bloom?
With bright light and proper care, it typically flowers from late spring through summer and may bloom several times each year.
Why isn't my Lipstick Plant flowering?
Insufficient light is the most common cause. Bright, indirect light, regular feeding during the growing season, and allowing the plant to become slightly root-bound encourage blooming.
Can I prune it?
Yes. Trim the vines after flowering to encourage branching and create a fuller plant.
How often should I fertilize it?
Feed once a month during spring and summer with a balanced water-soluble houseplant fertilizer at half strength. Reduce or stop fertilizing during winter.
Can I propagate Lipstick Rasta?
Yes. Stem cuttings root easily in water or moist potting mix, making it simple to grow new plants or fill out the original pot.
Shipping Guarantee
Every Lipstick Rasta is carefully inspected, watered, and securely packaged before shipping. Protective packaging helps keep the trailing vines and delicate foliage safe during transit so your plant arrives healthy and ready to grow.
Healthy Arrival Guarantee
We stand behind the quality of our plants. If your Lipstick Rasta arrives with significant shipping damage or in poor condition, contact us within 24 hours of delivery with clear photos of the plant and its packaging. We will gladly work with you to provide an appropriate replacement or store credit in accordance with our Healthy Arrival Guarantee policy.
