19 Disadvantages of Lipstick Plants You Should Know About

Ah, the lipstick plant! Its name alone evokes images of vibrant reds and oranges, reminiscent of a classic lipstick shade. While these beauties can add a splash of color to any room, they're not without their quirks. For anyone considering bringing one into their home, it's helpful to know what you might be up against.

In this article, we'll take a closer look at 19 potential downsides of lipstick plants. These insights will help you make informed decisions about whether this plant is right for your space.

1. High Humidity Requirements

Lipstick plants hail from the humid, tropical regions of Southeast Asia. This means they thrive in environments with high humidity, something that can be challenging to replicate in many homes. Without adequate humidity, their leaves can turn brown and crispy at the edges.

To combat this, you might find yourself misting the plant regularly or investing in a humidifier. And while some folks enjoy providing this level of care, others might find it a bit of a hassle. If you live in a particularly dry climate, keeping a lipstick plant happy might feel like a constant battle.

2. Susceptibility to Overwatering

While they love humidity, lipstick plants don't appreciate being waterlogged. Their roots can easily rot if left sitting in water, which is a common pitfall for new plant parents. Ensuring proper drainage is crucial, which means selecting the right pot and soil mix.

A quick tip: Let the top inch of soil dry out before watering again. This might sound simple, but it requires a keen eye and a bit of practice. Overwatering is one of the quickest ways to turn those vibrant leaves into a soggy mess.

3. Picky About Light

Finding the perfect spot for your lipstick plant can feel like a game of musical chairs. These plants prefer bright, indirect light. Too much direct sunlight, and you risk scorching the leaves. Too little light, and they might not bloom at all.

If you notice your plant looking a little lackluster, it might be time to move it around your home to find that sweet spot. This can be a bit of a dance, especially if your living situation doesn't offer a variety of lighting conditions.

4. Prone to Pest Problems

Like many houseplants, lipstick plants can fall victim to pests like aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites. These little critters can wreak havoc on your plant, sucking the life out of leaves and stems.

Regularly checking for pests and treating them with insecticidal soap or neem oil is essential. It's a bit like having a pet that requires frequent check-ups—some folks are into it, others, not so much.

5. Temperature Sensitivity

Lipstick plants prefer a stable environment. They don't handle sudden temperature changes well, which can be an issue if you live in a place with fluctuating indoor climates. Cold drafts from windows or sudden bursts of heater air can stress the plant.

Keeping the temperature between 65°F and 75°F is ideal. If your home experiences drastic temperature changes, you might find your lipstick plant throwing a bit of a tantrum.

6. Slow Growth Rate

If you're looking for a plant that quickly takes over a room, the lipstick plant might not be your best bet. They tend to grow at a leisurely pace, which can be frustrating if you're eager to see them flourish.

While some plant lovers enjoy watching their plants grow slowly and steadily, others might crave a bit more action. Patience is key with these beauties.

7. Necessity for Regular Pruning

To keep your lipstick plant looking its best, regular pruning is necessary. This helps maintain its shape and encourages new growth. However, not everyone is comfortable with snipping away at their plants.

If you're hesitant with the scissors, you might end up with a plant that looks a bit wild and unruly. For those who enjoy a hands-on approach, this is a chance to bond with your plant. But if the thought of pruning stresses you out, it might feel like a chore.

8. Challenging to Repot

Repotting a lipstick plant can be an ordeal. They're a bit fussy about being moved, and if not done carefully, you might damage the roots. This means you'll need to be gentle and patient when transferring them to a new pot.

Using the right soil mix is crucial, and ensuring the pot has good drainage is non-negotiable. If you're not confident in your repotting skills, this task can feel daunting.

9. Potential Allergens

While not highly toxic, some people might find that the lipstick plant causes mild irritation if they come into contact with the sap. This could be an issue if you have sensitive skin or curious pets that like to nibble on leaves.

If you're prone to allergies, it might be worth doing a test run before fully committing to having a lipstick plant in your home. It's always better to be safe than sorry!

10. Not Pet-Friendly

Speaking of curious pets, lipstick plants aren't the best choice if you have cats or dogs that like to chew on foliage. While not deadly, the plant can cause mild digestive issues if ingested.

If your furry friends have a tendency to explore with their mouths, you might want to consider placing the plant out of reach or opting for a pet-safe alternative.

11. Difficulty in Propagation

For those who enjoy expanding their plant collection through propagation, lipstick plants can pose a bit of a challenge. They require specific conditions to root successfully, which might deter beginners from trying their hand at propagation.

While not impossible, it takes a bit of practice and patience to master the art of propagating lipstick plants. If you're up for the challenge, it can be a rewarding process, but it might be frustrating for those looking for quick results.

12. Seasonal Blooming

If you’re hoping for year-round colorful blooms, you might be in for a disappointment. Lipstick plants typically bloom in spring and summer, with the flowers fading in the cooler months.

While some folks appreciate the seasonal change and the anticipation of blooms, others might wish for a plant that offers more consistent color. Understanding their blooming cycle is important to set realistic expectations.

13. Space Requirements

Despite their slow growth, lipstick plants can eventually become quite large, requiring ample space to sprawl out. If you live in a small apartment or have limited room, accommodating this plant may be tricky.

They thrive when allowed some room to breathe, so if space is at a premium in your home, you might need to reconsider or get creative with placement.

14. Fertilizer Needs

To keep a lipstick plant in top shape, regular feeding with a balanced fertilizer is recommended during the growing season. This can be an additional task for those who prefer low-maintenance plants.

If you're not familiar with plant fertilizers, it might take some time to learn which type is best and how often to apply it. Remember, over-fertilizing can be just as harmful as neglecting it altogether.

15. Limited Availability

Depending on where you live, lipstick plants may not be readily available at your local garden center. This could mean going on a bit of a quest to find one, or ordering online and dealing with shipping issues.

For those who enjoy the hunt, this might add to the excitement. But if you're looking for convenience, it could be a drawback.

16. Risk of Leaf Drop

When stressed, lipstick plants are prone to dropping their leaves. This can happen due to changes in environment, improper watering, or pest infestations.

While leaf drop can be reversed with the right care, it might be disheartening to see your plant lose its lushness. Consistency in care is key to keeping your lipstick plant happy and healthy.

17. Varied Reactions to Care

Even with all the right conditions, lipstick plants can be unpredictable. Some may thrive with minimal effort, while others might seem to struggle no matter what you do.

This variability can be frustrating, especially for those who like to see predictable results from their efforts. If you're someone who enjoys solving plant puzzles, this might be an intriguing challenge, but it could deter those looking for a straightforward plant.

18. Potential for Root Bound

Over time, lipstick plants can become root bound, where the roots take over the pot, limiting growth. This means regular inspection and repotting are essential to keep the plant thriving.

If you're not keen on the idea of frequent repotting, this might be something to consider. However, if you enjoy getting up close and personal with your plants, it can be an opportunity to check on their health and give them a fresh start.

19. Limited Tolerance to Neglect

Unlike some hardy houseplants, lipstick plants don’t tolerate neglect well. They need consistent care to look their best, which might not suit everyone's lifestyle.

If you have a busy schedule or tend to forget about your plants, a lipstick plant might not be the best fit. However, if you’re committed to giving it the love and attention it needs, it can be a rewarding addition to your home.

Final Thoughts

While lipstick plants can be a bit high-maintenance, their vibrant blooms and lush foliage make them a popular choice for many plant lovers. Understanding the potential downsides will prepare you to provide the best care possible.

Here at Cafe Planta, we're here to support you in your plant journey. Whether you're looking for the perfect plant or need some advice on care, feel free to email us or reach out on Instagram. We believe plants can bring warmth and joy to any space, and we're excited to help you create your own plant haven.