Aeschynanthus ‘Mona Lisa’ Lipstick Plant – Flowering Trailing Houseplant

Aeschynanthus ‘Mona Lisa’, commonly called Lipstick Plant, is a tropical trailing houseplant grown for its glossy green foliage and colorful tubular flowers that emerge from dark buds like a tube of lipstick. Its arching to cascading stems make it especially well suited for hanging baskets, shelves, and elevated planters where the vines can trail naturally. With bright indirect light, warmth, and consistent care, mature plants can produce striking red blooms that stand out against the dense green foliage.

QUICK FACTS

Botanical name: Aeschynanthus ‘Mona Lisa’
Common name: Mona Lisa Lipstick Plant, Lipstick Plant
Growth habit: Trailing to cascading tropical vine
Light: Bright indirect light
Water: Water when the upper portion of the potting mix begins to dry
Care level: Moderate
Pet safety: Lipstick Plants are generally considered non-toxic to cats and dogs.

CARE

Light: Provide bright, indirect light for strong growth and flowering. Gentle morning light can be beneficial, but protect the foliage from prolonged harsh direct sun.

Water: Water thoroughly when the upper portion of the potting mix begins to dry, then allow excess water to drain freely. Avoid keeping the roots constantly saturated, but do not allow the plant to remain completely dry for extended periods.

Humidity: Average to moderately high household humidity is suitable. Good airflow is beneficial, especially in warmer or more humid growing conditions.

Soil: Use a loose, airy, well-draining potting mix that holds some moisture without becoming waterlogged. A quality houseplant mix amended with orchid bark and perlite works well for maintaining drainage and airflow around the roots.

Temperature: Prefers warm indoor temperatures and should be protected from cold drafts. Temperatures around 65–80°F are generally suitable, and prolonged exposure below about 50–55°F should be avoided. Lipstick Plants are tropical epiphytic perennials that perform best in warm conditions. 

Fertilizer: Feed lightly with a balanced fertilizer during periods of active growth and flowering. Reduce feeding when growth slows.

GROWTH & HABIT

Aeschynanthus ‘Mona Lisa’ develops arching stems that become increasingly trailing as the plant matures. Its thick, glossy leaves grow densely along the vines, creating a full cascading appearance. Mature plants can produce clusters of elongated red tubular flowers, making this cultivar especially attractive in hanging baskets or elevated planters where both the foliage and blooms can be displayed.

PET SAFETY

Pet Safety: Lipstick Plants are generally considered non-toxic to cats and dogs. The ASPCA lists Lipstick Plant within Aeschynanthus as non-toxic to both dogs and cats.

AFTER DELIVERY

Do not repot a freshly shipped plant for at least two weeks after delivery. Repotting during the Blackwater Plants guarantee period voids live plant guarantee coverage.