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Aeschynanthus radicans is an epiphyte that grows in the angles of branches in the rain forest. As with all epiphytes, the lipstick plant does not live as a parasite on the tree, but takes its nourishment from fallen leaves and twigs that accumulate in the crevices of branches. It is native to the Malaysian peninsula.
Blooming Time: May-August The red flowers are long and tubular, and grow in clusters.
Culture: Aeschynanthus radicans need plenty of light, but not direct sunlight. They thrive in summer heat and winter temperatures should not drop below 60 degrees. The compost should consist of 2 parts peat moss to 1 part sand. Water and fertilize the plant often during the growing season and mist it regularly. It can tolerate slight drying-out in between waterings. Water sparingly during the winter rest period.
Propagation: Aeschynanthus radicans is propagated by cuttings with bottom heat of 72-75 degrees.
Aeschynanthus radicans was featured as Plant of the Week June 2-8, 2000.
Guide to Past Plants-of-the-Week:
These pages are provided as a service by the Department of Botany and Microbiology, University of Oklahoma by Cal Lemke.