Genus guide
Aeschynanthus — 25 species
Part of the African violets & gesneriads family (Gesneriaceae)
Aeschynanthus is a trailing, epiphytic genus from tropical Asia celebrated for tubular blooms that emerge from dark calyces — most vividly in the Lipstick Plant (A. radicans) and its slender and dwarf-form relatives. Bright indirect light within two to three feet of an east- or west-facing window promotes consistent flowering; direct midday sun scorches the glossy leaves. Water when the top one to one-and-a-half inches of the medium feel dry, reducing frequency in winter. The ASPCA lists Aeschynanthus as non-toxic to cats, dogs, and horses, making the whole genus a pet-safe pick for hanging baskets.
All Aeschynanthus species we cover
- Aeschynanthus 'Black Pagoda'
- Aeschynanthus 'Mona Lisa'
- Aeschynanthus 'Rasta'
- Aeschynanthus lobbianus
- Aeschynanthus marmoratus
- Aeschynanthus pulcher
- Aeschynanthus radicans 'Curly Q'
- Aeschynanthus speciosus
- Aeschynanthus tricolor
- Black Pagoda Lipstick Plant
- Bracted Lipstick Plant
- dwarf lipstick vine
- Hildebrands Basket Vine
- Lipstick Plant
- Lipstick Plant 'Mona Lisa'
- Lipstick Vine
- Mona Lisa Lipstick Plant
- Royal Red Lipstick Plant
- Showy Lipstick Vine
- Single-flower Lipstick Plant
- slender lipstick plant
- Small-leaf Lipstick Plant
- Small-Leaved Lipstick Vine
- Tweedie's Lipstick Plant
- Zebra Basket Vine
Aeschynanthus — frequently asked questions
Are Aeschynanthus plants toxic to cats and dogs?
Most Aeschynanthus are pet-safe. Of the 25 Aeschynanthus species we cover, 25 are non-toxic on the ASPCA list and 0 carry a toxic or mildly-toxic rating. Even so, confirm the individual species before trusting it around pets.
How much light do Aeschynanthus plants need?
Most Aeschynanthus do best in bright indirect light. If yours stretches toward the window or loses its variegation it wants more light; scorched or bleached leaves mean it is getting too much direct sun.
Are Aeschynanthus easy to care for?
Aeschynanthus are moderate to grow: the main requirement is a genuinely bright spot out of harsh midday sun. Get the light right and the rest of their care follows.
How many Aeschynanthus varieties are there?
Growli's care library covers 25 Aeschynanthus species and varieties — browse them all above. They share a similar light, water and soil pattern, so once you learn one Aeschynanthus, the rest follow closely.
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