If you’re searching for a houseplant that’s both easy to care for and stunning to look at, lipstick plants should be at the top of your list. Named for their tubular, lipstick-shaped blooms that burst from dark, glossy buds, these tropical beauties instantly brighten up any space. With their cascading foliage and vibrant flowers, lipstick plants thrive in hanging baskets or perched on high shelves. Better yet, they’re low-maintenance and perfect for adding a splash of color indoors. Let’s dive into 10 lipstick plant varieties you’ll absolutely adore!
1. Aeschynanthus radicans (Classic Lipstick Plant)
The most popular of the lipstick plant family, Aeschynanthus radicans boasts rich green, glossy leaves and striking red flowers that peek out from dark maroon tubes. Its cascading habit makes it ideal for hanging baskets where its long vines can gracefully drape down. Blooming generously during the warmer months, this variety loves bright, indirect light and consistent humidity. The contrast between the vibrant red flowers and deep green foliage creates a lively tropical display perfect for brightening up living rooms or sunrooms.
2. Aeschynanthus ‘Mona Lisa’
Renowned for its lush, fuller foliage and more frequent blooming habits, Aeschynanthus ‘Mona Lisa’ is a favorite among houseplant enthusiasts. It features slightly broader, glossy green leaves and produces deep red flowers in abundance throughout the year with the right care. More forgiving than some of its relatives, this variety thrives in moderate indoor conditions and bounces back well from occasional neglect. It’s an excellent choice for beginners looking for a dramatic plant with reliable, showy blooms.
3. Aeschynanthus ‘Rasta’
If you’re after a plant with a unique personality, Aeschynanthus ‘Rasta’ fits the bill. This variety is known for its thick, twisted, curly foliage that creates a dramatic cascading effect. The dark green leaves have an almost rope-like appearance, making it a standout even when it’s not in bloom. When it flowers, it produces classic lipstick-red tubular blooms, adding an extra burst of color to its quirky aesthetic. It’s a fantastic conversation piece for boho or eclectic interiors.
4. Aeschynanthus longicaulis (Zebra Basket Vine)
This variety offers something a little different with its distinct foliage. Aeschynanthus longicaulis, also known as the Zebra Basket Vine, features elongated, glossy leaves marked with deep, almost purplish undersides. The flowers are a striking deep orange-red with spotted inner petals, adding extra visual intrigue. Its trailing habit makes it perfect for hanging pots or tall plant stands. This variety enjoys slightly higher humidity and adds an exotic, almost jungle-like touch to any indoor plant collection.
5. Aeschynanthus ‘Thai Pink’
For a softer, more romantic look, Aeschynanthus ‘Thai Pink’ delivers delicate pink tubular blooms in place of the classic fiery reds. Its tender flowers emerge from dark buds against a backdrop of medium-green, waxy foliage. This variety thrives in bright, indirect light and appreciates regular misting to maintain humidity. The pastel blooms make it a charming addition to bedrooms, kitchens, or bathrooms, adding a pop of color without overpowering your décor.
6. Aeschynanthus ‘Cassiopeia’
A newer cultivar gaining popularity, Aeschynanthus ‘Cassiopeia’ stands out with its larger, velvety leaves and unique reddish-orange blooms. The flowers tend to have slightly flared petal tips, resembling little trumpets emerging from deep maroon buds. Its elegant, arching vines can reach impressive lengths, making it ideal for trailing over shelves or hanging near bright windows. It’s a beautiful choice for plant lovers looking for a more substantial, statement-making lipstick plant.
7. Aeschynanthus ‘Black Pagoda’
This variety offers captivating foliage as well as charming blooms. Aeschynanthus ‘Black Pagoda’ features deep olive-green leaves with dark, marbled markings and rich purple undersides. In the right light, the leaves shimmer subtly, adding depth to your plant display. Its flowers are orange to reddish-orange and appear sporadically throughout the year. Even without flowers, this plant earns its place with its eye-catching leaves, making it perfect for adding texture and pattern to your indoor jungle.
8. Aeschynanthus speciosus (Large-Flowered Lipstick Plant)
As the name suggests, Aeschynanthus speciosus is known for its oversized, fiery orange flowers with yellow interiors. The blooms emerge in dramatic clusters, contrasting beautifully against large, leathery green leaves. This show-stopper thrives in bright, indirect light and appreciates a bit of extra humidity to encourage generous blooming. Its bold color palette makes it ideal for plant lovers who crave vibrant, tropical vibes in their homes. This variety does especially well in hanging baskets where it can trail freely.
9. Aeschynanthus ‘Twister’
True to its name, Aeschynanthus ‘Twister’ boasts uniquely curled and twisted green leaves, giving it an intriguing, sculptural look. Its foliage alone makes it a standout in any collection, but the classic red lipstick blooms add a striking contrast to the unusual foliage shape. Best displayed in hanging pots, this variety loves a bright spot away from harsh, direct sunlight. It’s perfect for those who love plants with quirky shapes and bold blooms rolled into one.
10. Aeschynanthus micranthus
A lesser-known gem, Aeschynanthus micranthus produces clusters of bright red, slightly smaller flowers compared to other varieties, but its dense, trailing vines make it equally charming. The slender leaves have a subtle gloss and form a lush cascade perfect for hanging displays. This variety prefers moderate light and consistent moisture but is generally easy-going and forgiving, making it a good option for plant lovers still refining their indoor gardening skills.