Variegated Lipstick Plant (Aeschynanthus radicans 'Variegata')
4” Girl Run Farm
$19.99
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Variegated Lipstick Plant (Aeschynanthus radicans 'Variegata')
$19.99
Creamy-White Variegation Meets Scarlet Tubular Blooms
Aeschynanthus radicans 'Variegata' is a variegated cultivar of the classic Southeast Asian Lipstick Plant, a trailing tropical epiphyte in the Gesneriaceae family. Unlike standard solid-green varieties, its thick, glossy, opposite leaves are marbled and edged with creamy white and pale chartreuse. As the stems mature and cascade over the pot edge, they produce clusters of vibrant crimson-red tubular flowers emerging from dark burgundy calyces—resembling a tube of lipstick.
Aeschynanthus radicans 'Variegata' is a variegated cultivar of the classic Southeast Asian Lipstick Plant, a trailing tropical epiphyte in the Gesneriaceae family. Unlike standard solid-green varieties, its thick, glossy, opposite leaves are marbled and edged with creamy white and pale chartreuse. As the stems mature and cascade over the pot edge, they produce clusters of vibrant crimson-red tubular flowers emerging from dark burgundy calyces—resembling a tube of lipstick.
Epiphytic Growth & Trailing Habit
In its native tropical habitats across Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia, Aeschynanthus grows epiphytically on tree branches rather than in dense forest floor soil. This natural adaptation gives the plant semi-succulent, moisture-retaining foliage and a strong preference for airy, fast-draining substrates and elevated hanging displays.
In its native tropical habitats across Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia, Aeschynanthus grows epiphytically on tree branches rather than in dense forest floor soil. This natural adaptation gives the plant semi-succulent, moisture-retaining foliage and a strong preference for airy, fast-draining substrates and elevated hanging displays.
Key Botanical Highlights
- Foliage Pattern: Waxy, ovate green leaves with creamy-white marginal and marbled variegation.
- Flowers: Clusters of bright scarlet-red tubular blooms emerging from dark maroon bracts, typically appearing from late spring through summer under strong light.
- Growth Habit: Compact, branching rosette when young that develops into graceful, cascading vines reaching 2–3 feet at maturity.
- Pet Friendly: Non-toxic to cats and dogs.
Care & Cultivation Guide
- Light: Bright, indirect light is essential to maintain crisp leaf variegation and trigger flower bud formation. An east-facing window or a spot beneath grow lights works well. Avoid harsh, direct midday sun, which can scorch the lighter variegated leaf tissue.
- Water: Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of substrate feel dry, allowing excess water to drain completely. Because of its semi-succulent leaves, it tolerates brief periods of dryness better than soggy roots. Use tepid water, as cold water can cause leaf spotting on Gesneriads.
- Substrate: Requires an airy, chunky, well-draining epiphytic mix—such as coco coir or peat amended with perlite, pumice, and fine orchid bark—to keep oxygen flowing around the roots.
- Temperature & Humidity: Thrives in warm indoor temperatures between 65°F and 80°F (18°C–27°C) and appreciates moderate to high humidity (50%+), though it adapts well to standard household conditions. Keep away from cold drafts below 55°F (13°C).
- Fertilization & Pruning: Feed monthly during spring and summer with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. Pinching stem tips after blooming encourages fuller, bushier branching.