Light: Thrives in bright, indirect sunlight – this will help promote blooms.
Do not place it in a location where the plant receives direct sunlight or the leaves can burn. If the Lipstick plant does not bloom and/or the stem becomes long and scraggly looking, most likely the plant is not receiving enough sunlight.
Watering: Water when the 2” of soil feels dry, then water thoroughly. Always water until it runs from the bottom drain holes. Don’t let lipstick plant dry out completely, but also take care not to overwater it. If this plant stays too wet, it will suffer from root rot. During spring and summer months you may need to water an average of once per week. During fall and winter months the plant will require less water and may only need to be watered once every two to three weeks.
Temperature: Indoor temperatures of 65 to 80 degrees. Don’t place by heating or cooling vents.
Humidity: Prefers a more humid environment. To increase humidity you can mist plant several times per week with room temperature water, add a partially filled pebble tray, or use a humidifier. This plant thrives in bathrooms – the regular use of water around the plant creates a humid environment.
Toxicity: Non-toxic
Trouble Shooting
Shriveled leaves: indicates plant is not getting enough water.
Leaves lose shiny green color: suggest over-watering. It is better to miss a watering or wait an extra week than to regularly apply too much water.
Black, water-soaked areas on the leaves: it has a fungal problem (botrytis). You can trim off the affected leaves and reduce moisture around the plant by misting only during the daytime hours so the leaves have time to dry by night. You can also spray with a copper fungicide.