The Aeschynanthus, or pubic flower in German, is a very decorative houseplant with its bizarre flowers. The plant, which comes from the south and southeast of Asia, does not feel comfortable in the home garden because it is too cold there.
How do I properly care for my Aeschynanthus?
Caring for the Aeschynanthus (pubic flower) includes a warm, bright location without direct sun, regular watering and spraying with lukewarm, low-lime water, fertilizing every two weeks from March to August, and hibernation at 16 °C.
The ideal location for the Aeschynanthus
The pubic flower loves it bright and warm, but it doesn't tolerate the blazing sun well. It is therefore better placed in a bright east or west window than in a south window, where it should be shaded during midday. A north window, on the other hand, might be too dark for her.
Since many varieties of pubic flowers form long hanging shoots, they are very suitable for planting hanging baskets. If the Aeschynanthus is moved while it has buds or flowers, they could fall off. So avoid changing locations during this time. The temperature should be between 20 °C and 25 °C during the growth phase.
Water and fertilize the Aeschynanthus properly
Your Aeschynanthus likes warm, humid climates best. Accordingly, it should be watered regularly. If the root ball dries out, the plant could die. From March to August, give it a little liquid fertilizer about every two weeks (€6.00 on Amazon).
The pubic flower is extremely grateful for an occasional spraying with lukewarm, lime-free water. In this way you ensure optimal humidity and at the same time prevent an infestation of annoying aphids.
Overwintering the pubic flower
In winter you should allow your pubic flower to hibernate at around 16 °C. Although the plant does not grow during this time, it will bloom profusely next year. Be sure to significantly limit the amount and frequency of watering, but do not allow the soil to dry out. Without hibernation, the flowers of your Aeschynanthus will be significantly sparser.
The most important things in brief:
- Location: warm, bright, without direct sunlight
- Humidity: rather high
- Temperature: between 20 °C and 25 °C
- water regularly and spray with water
- Use lukewarm and low-lime water, preferably rainwater
- fertilize: from March to August about every 2 weeks
- Winter rest at approx. 16 °C promotes flowering
Tip
Spraying your Aeschynanthus regularly ensures the necessary humidity and at the same time prevents aphid infestation.
