If you’re looking for a plant that’s easy to care for and adds a pop of color to your living space, the variegated lipstick plant is an excellent choice. This plant is native to the tropical rainforests of Central and South America and is known for its glossy, variegated leaves and bright red flowers that resemble lipsticks.
In this guide, we’ll go over everything you need to know about growing and caring for a variegated lipstick plant in a pot.
When it comes to choosing a pot for your variegated lipstick plant, it’s important to pick one that’s the right size. The pot should be slightly larger than the root ball of the plant, but not too big that the soil won’t dry out between waterings. A pot that’s too big can lead to overwatering, which can cause root rot.
Make sure the pot has drainage holes so excess water can escape. If you’re worried about water leaking onto your floors or furniture, use a saucer underneath the pot to catch any water.
Variegated lipstick plants prefer well-draining soil that’s rich in organic matter. You can use a general-purpose potting mix or make your own by mixing equal parts of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite.
Avoid using heavy soils that retain moisture for too long as this can lead to root rot.
Variegated lipstick plants prefer bright, indirect light. A location near a window facing east or west where it gets morning or afternoon sun is ideal. However, avoid placing it directly in front of a south-facing window where it may get too much direct sunlight.
If your variegated lipstick plant isn’t getting enough light, its leaves may start to turn yellow and drop off. On the other hand, too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.
Variegated lipstick plants prefer to be kept evenly moist but not waterlogged. Water your plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Use room temperature water and pour it slowly into the soil until it starts to drain out of the bottom of the pot.
Avoid getting water on the leaves as this can cause water spots or even fungal diseases. If your plant is getting too much water, its leaves may turn yellow or brown and drop off.
Variegated lipstick plants benefit from regular fertilization during their growing season, which is spring to summer. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half-strength every two weeks.
Avoid fertilizing during the winter months when the plant is dormant.
Pruning your variegated lipstick plant helps keep it looking full and bushy. You can pinch off the tips of new growth to encourage branching or cut back any leggy stems.
If you notice any dead or yellowing leaves, remove them immediately as they can attract pests and diseases.
Propagation of variegated lipstick plants is usually done by stem cuttings. Take a cutting at least 4 inches long from a healthy stem with a few leaves attached. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in a pot filled with moist potting mix.
Keep the pot in a bright, humid location and mist the cutting regularly until new growth appears.
Q: How often should I repot my variegated lipstick plant?
A: Variegated lipstick plants prefer to be slightly root-bound, so you only need to repot them once every two to three years.
Q: Can I grow a variegated lipstick plant outdoors?
A: Variegated lipstick plants are tender tropicals and are best grown indoors where they’re protected from cold temperatures and drafts.
Q: My variegated lipstick plant is dropping its leaves. What’s wrong with it?
A: Dropping leaves can be caused by overwatering, underwatering, too much or too little light, or pests. Check the soil moisture level and adjust your watering schedule, make sure the plant is getting enough light, and inspect it for pests like spider mites or mealybugs.
Q: Can I prune my variegated lipstick plant in the winter?
A: It’s best to avoid pruning your variegated lipstick plant during the winter when it’s dormant. Wait until spring when new growth appears.
With these tips, you can successfully grow and care for a beautiful variegated lipstick plant in a pot. Enjoy its glossy leaves and bright red flowers year-round!