Aeschynanthus radicans ‘Mona Lisa’ – Mona Lisa Lip Plant

Glossy Trailing Vines with Bold, Lipstick-Red Blooms

Aeschynanthus radicans ‘Mona Lisa’, commonly known as the Mona Lisa Lipstick Plant, is a striking trailing houseplant prized for its vibrant tubular red flowers that emerge dramatically from dark buds — resembling a fresh swipe of lipstick.

Its glossy, deep green leaves cascade elegantly from hanging baskets and elevated shelves, creating a lush, tropical display. When in bloom, the vivid red flowers provide bold contrast against the foliage, making this plant a true focal point indoors.

Why You’ll Love It

Brilliant Blooms: Lipstick-red tubular flowers throughout the growing season.

Trailing Growth Habit: Perfect for hanging planters and shelves.

Glossy Evergreen Foliage: Deep green leaves add texture year-round.

Pet-Friendly: Non-toxic to cats and dogs.

Plant Profile

Botanical Name: Aeschynanthus radicans ‘Mona Lisa’

Common Name: Mona Lisa Lipstick Plant

Family: Gesneriaceae

Native Range: Southeast Asia (Vietnam, Malaysia, Thailand)

Growth Habit: Trailing / cascading vine

Ed’s Care Guide

Care Level: Easy

Light: Prefers bright to medium indirect light. Avoid harsh direct sun, which can scorch leaves.

Water: Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry between waterings. Avoid keeping soil consistently soggy.

Humidity: Tolerates average household humidity but benefits from moderate humidity for best flowering.

Temperature: 65–85°F. Protect from cold drafts and temperatures below 60°F.

Soil: Well-draining potting mix with good aeration.

Feeding: Fertilize monthly during spring and summer with a balanced houseplant fertilizer.

Pruning: Trim vines after flowering to encourage bushier growth and more blooms.

Propagation: Easily propagated through stem cuttings.

Common Pests: Monitor for aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites.

Toxicity: Considered non-toxic to pets and humans.

A Tropical Flowering Statement

In its native rainforest habitat, Aeschynanthus grows as an epiphytic vine, thriving in bright filtered light and humid air. Indoors, it rewards consistent care with dramatic flowering displays that can repeat multiple times per year under ideal conditions.

The ‘Mona Lisa’ variety is especially valued for its reliable blooming and compact trailing habit — making it one of the best lipstick plants for indoor collections.