Lipstick Plant – Small-Leaf Form

🌿 The Small-Leaf Lipstick Plant (Aeschynanthus radicans 'Small Leaf'), a member of the Gesneriaceae family, is a compact trailing houseplant native to the humid tropical forests of Southeast Asia, particularly Malaysia and Indonesia. In its natural habitat, this epiphytic plant grows on tree branches and rocky surfaces, where it cascades downward in search of filtered light. This small-leaf variety is known for its miniature foliage and easier care compared to its larger cousins, making it ideal for beginners who want a flowering plant without too much fuss. Fun fact: the tubular red flowers emerge from dark maroon buds that look just like tiny lipstick tubes, which is exactly how this plant earned its playful common name.
FOLIAGE AND GROWTH HABIT
This is a trailing or hanging plant that develops long, cascading stems over time, perfect for displaying in hanging baskets or on elevated shelves. The leaves are small, thick, and somewhat succulent-like, typically growing only about 1 to 2 centimeters in length. They're a deep green colour with a glossy, waxy texture that helps the plant retain moisture. The compact leaf size gives this variety a delicate, refined appearance compared to standard lipstick plants.
FLOWER DETAILS
The flowers are vibrant red with a tubular shape, sometimes showing hints of orange or yellow at the throat. They emerge from dark burgundy calyxes that resemble little lipstick cases. There's no noticeable fragrance, but the visual impact is stunning when clusters of blooms appear along the trailing stems. Flowering typically happens in spring and summer, though with proper care, you might see blooms sporadically throughout the year. To encourage more flowers, provide bright indirect light, keep humidity levels up, and allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings—stress from mild drying can actually trigger blooming. A monthly feeding during the growing season also helps support flower production.
CARE INSTRUCTIONS
🌞 Light: Bright, indirect light for 6-8 hours daily. An east or west-facing window works well. Avoid harsh direct sun, which can scorch the leaves.
💧 Water: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry—about once a week in summer, less in winter. Bottom watering or soaking the pot in a basin works great to ensure even moisture without wetting the foliage.
🌡️ Humidity: Prefers 50-70% humidity. Will tolerate average home humidity but blooms better with extra moisture from a humidifier or pebble tray.
🪴 Soil: Light, chunky, well-draining mix. Combine potting soil with perlite and orchid bark for best results.
🏺 Potting: Use a shallow hanging basket or pot with drainage holes. Terracotta or plastic both work. Repot every 2-3 years or when roots fill the pot.
🌱 Growth rate: Moderate. Expect 15-30 cm of new growth in a year under good conditions. Mature vines can reach 60-90 cm in length.
👩‍🌾 Fertilizing: Feed monthly from spring through early fall with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Skip fertilizing in winter.
🐾 Pet friendly: Yes, non-toxic to cats and dogs. Safe to have around curious pets.
WHERE TO PUT IT
The Small-Leaf Lipstick Plant thrives in bathrooms, kitchens, or any room with good natural light and a bit of humidity. Display it in a hanging basket near an east or west window, or place it on a high shelf where the trailing vines can drape down. It also does well in covered patios or sunrooms during warmer months. Avoid placing it in dark corners, near heating vents, or in drafty areas near exterior doors, as these conditions can stress the plant and reduce flowering.