Lipstick
plant
The botanical
name of the lipstick plant is Aeschynanthus radicans rasta. It grows in the
forests of Asia as an epiphyte and prefers a warm, bright humid atmosphere to
thrive. Although
in its natural habitat, it grows on trees or in rocks crevices, it will live happily in a pot in
free-draining soil.
The ‘lipstick’
flowers emerge from dark red tubes at the ends of twisted leaves carried on cascading
stems. It is relatively easy to look
after, with one site saying that it is ‘perfect for those new to plant
parenthood’ and suggesting that the soil should be allowed to dry out between
waterings. It looks well in hanging baskets, providing interest all year round.
