Plant Know-How: Aeschynanthus radicans 'Rasta'

We can't help but be captivated by the curly leaves on Aeschynanthus radicans 'Rasta'. You may be more familiar with this plant's common name, 'Lipstick Plant'. It gets this name for the bright red flower it produces which resembles tubes of lipstick. Aeschynanthus radicans 'Rasta' sets itselt apart from other Lipstick Plants with its amazing curly leaves. This is a great addition if you want to add something a little different to your indoor jungle! Aeschynanthus radicans 'Rasta', like other Lipstick Plants, is epiphytic. This is a great choice if you want to try growing a mounted plant. Aeschynanthus radicans 'Rasta' can sometime be a little finicky, so we have all the info you need here to keep your Aeschynanthus radicans 'Rasta' looking its best!

HOW TO CARE FOR AESCHYNANTHUS RADICANS 'RASTA':

Light requirements for Aeschynanthus radicans 'Rasta': This plant will do best grown in bright, indirect light. If grown in medium indirect light, they will not flower and will likely lose a lot of leaves. Be mindful that the amount of light your plant gets will dictate how frequently it will need to be watered.

Watering tips for Aeschynanthus radicans 'Rasta': Your Aeschynanthus radicans 'Rasta' does not like to get too dry, but shouldn't be soggy either. Water when the top 1/4th of the soil has gone dry. If you need some help knowing how wet or dry your soil is, a moisture meter is a helpful tool that can take out some of the guesswork! This is a plant that will benefit from added humidity. They will do well next to a humidifier, with a pebble tray underneath of the pot, or in a very well lit bathroom where the shower is run often. Aeschynanthus radicans 'Rasta' is native to Thailand and Malaysia, where it grows in warm, humid rainforests. Trying to mimic their natural habitat will help to ensure you're creating the right environment for your plant to thrive! 

The Best Soil for Aeschynanthus radicans 'Rasta': A. radicans 'Rasta' does best in a chunky, well-draining potting medium that allows lots of oxygen to flow around the roots, and doesn't trap too much water for too long. Our Folia Favorite Mix was developed specifically with plants like this in mind.

Is Aeschynanthus radicans 'Rasta' pet-safe? Aeschynanthus are non-toxic to cats & dogs! If you're looking for other pet-safe plants, be sure to check out the Pet Safe category of the Plant Care Compendium! 

Did you know? Aeschynanthus radicans 'Rasta' is non-toxic to cats and dogs. It's a great choice for plant lovers who have curious pets!

Interested in this curly cutie? We have Aeschynanthus radicans 'Rasta' availabe in-store!