Hot Lips Plant: Care & Growing Guide

The Hot Lips Plant (Anigozanthos), commonly referred to as Kangaroo Paw or Flamingo Plant, is an eye-catching perennial that is native to the coastal regions of Australia. This vibrant flowering plant is beloved for its unique, tubular flowers that resemble the shape of a kangaroo's paw, often showcasing striking colors ranging from red and orange to yellow and green. The plant’s name, Hot Lips, comes from the distinctive shape and bright hues of its flowers, which resemble a pair of lips in full bloom.

As an exotic flowering plant, the Hot Lips Plant has gained popularity worldwide, particularly in gardens and landscapes seeking a bold, tropical touch. Its captivating appearance and relatively low-maintenance needs make it an attractive choice for both novice gardeners and seasoned horticulturists.

In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about growing, caring for, and maintaining a healthy Hot Lips Plant. From selecting the right environment to troubleshooting common growth issues, we’ll provide you with the essential tips to help this stunning plant thrive in your garden or home.

Plant Information

Name: Hot Lips Plant
Family: Lamiaceae (Mint family)
Mature Size: 2–3 ft tall, 2–3 ft wide
Plant Type: Perennial shrub
Botanical Name: Salvia microphylla 'Hot Lips'
Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
Soil Type: Well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
Bloom Time: Late spring to fall (may bloom year-round in mild climates)
Flower Color: Bicolor red and white (sometimes solid red or white depending on temperature)
Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 7–10
Native Area: Mexico, Southwestern USA
Toxicity: Non-toxic to humans and pets

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How to Grow Hot Lips Plant

Growing Environment

The Hot Lips Plant (Anigozanthos) thrives best in warm climates and is ideally suited for USDA hardiness zones 9-11. These zones experience mild to warm temperatures, making them perfect for growing this Australian native. The plant enjoys temperatures between 60°F (15°C) and 85°F (29°C), but it can tolerate slightly cooler conditions in winter, as long as it’s kept in a sheltered spot.

In terms of humidity, Hot Lips plants are relatively tolerant but will perform best in moderate to high humidity environments. If you're growing it indoors in a drier climate, consider placing the plant near a humidity tray or using a room humidifier to create a more suitable atmosphere.

Importance of Sunlight

Hot Lips plants are sun-loving and require full sunlight to flourish. They should receive direct sun exposure for at least 6 hours a day. This bright light helps the plant produce the vibrant, colorful blooms it's known for. A sunny south-facing window or an outdoor garden bed with plenty of sunshine is ideal.

Without adequate sunlight, the plant may suffer from leggy growth and may not bloom as abundantly. If you're growing it indoors, place it in a spot that gets the most direct light throughout the day.

Best Soil Type

For optimal growth, the Hot Lips Plant prefers well-draining soil. It thrives in soil that is slightly acidic to neutral, with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0. Sandy or loamy soils are best, as they allow for proper water drainage, preventing root rot, which is common in soggy soils.

If your soil tends to retain too much moisture, you can improve drainage by adding sand or perlite to the mix. Alternatively, planting in raised beds or containers with a good-quality potting mix will also provide the ideal growing medium.

Growing Hot Lips in Containers vs. in Garden Beds

In Containers: Growing Hot Lips in containers is a great option, especially if you're in an area with colder winters or need flexibility to move the plant. Containers allow you to control the soil, drainage, and mobility of the plant. Just ensure that the container has adequate drainage holes and is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.

In Garden Beds: If you live in a suitable climate, growing Hot Lips in the ground offers more space for the plant to spread and thrive. Be sure to choose a well-drained garden bed with plenty of sunlight, and amend the soil as needed to ensure proper drainage. Consider planting in groups for a more dramatic, colorful display of flowers.

Planting Hot Lips

Step-by-Step Process for Planting:

Prepare the Soil:

Before planting, test your soil’s drainage. If necessary, amend it by mixing in sand, compost, or perlite to improve drainage and ensure the plant won’t sit in waterlogged conditions.

For container planting, use a high-quality potting mix with good drainage. You can also mix in some cactus mix or sand for extra drainage.

Planting Depth and Spacing:

Depth: When planting, dig a hole that is roughly twice the size of the root ball of the plant. The top of the root ball should sit just slightly above the soil line to allow for proper root growth.

Spacing: Space your Hot Lips plants about 18-24 inches apart to give them room to grow and spread. If planting in a container, ensure it is large enough to accommodate the roots without overcrowding.

Watering: After planting, water the Hot Lips plant thoroughly to help settle the soil around the roots. Ensure the soil stays moist but not soaked for the first few weeks as the plant establishes itself.

Propagation Methods:

From Seeds: Hot Lips can be grown from seeds, though this method may take longer. Sow seeds in a well-draining seed tray filled with seed-starting mix. Keep the soil moist and provide consistent warmth to encourage germination.

From Cuttings: Take a healthy cutting from an established plant, ideally a stem that is about 3-4 inches long. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Place the cutting in a well-draining potting mix and maintain high humidity around it by covering it with a plastic bag or dome. Once the roots have developed, transplant the cutting into its permanent home.

From Nursery Plants: Starting from nursery plants is the easiest and quickest method for beginners. Choose a healthy plant with strong, vibrant foliage and plant it directly into your chosen garden bed or container.

Common Challenges in Growth

While the Hot Lips plant is generally easy to grow, there are some common challenges gardeners may face:

Slow Growth or Lack of Blooms: If your Hot Lips plant is struggling to grow or bloom, it may not be receiving enough sunlight. Ensure it gets 6+ hours of direct sunlight each day. Also, check if the soil is too wet or compacted, which can lead to root rot. Regularly prune dead or damaged stems to encourage healthy growth and blooms.
Poor Soil Drainage: Hot Lips plants are highly sensitive to waterlogged soil. If you notice yellowing leaves or wilting despite regular watering, it could be a sign of overwatering or poor soil drainage. Improve drainage by adjusting the soil or repotting the plant into a container with better drainage.
Pests and Diseases: Common pests like aphids, mealybugs, and scale insects can attack the plant. Keep an eye out for sticky residue on the leaves or distorted growth. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control pests.
Companion Plants: Hot Lips plants look beautiful when paired with other drought-tolerant, sun-loving plants such as Calla lilies, African violets, or even other varieties of Anigozanthos. These companions not only complement the Hot Lips’ bright colors but also help maintain a harmonious garden ecosystem.

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Watering Needs

Watering the Hot Lips Plant (Anigozanthos) requires a careful balance between keeping the soil moist and avoiding overwatering. Here's what you need to know:

How Often to Water

Hot Lips plants prefer consistent moisture, but not to the point where the soil is soggy. Generally, water the plant once a week during the warmer months when the soil starts to dry out. In the cooler months, reduce watering frequency. The key is to check the top few inches of soil; if it feels dry, it's time to water.

Balance Between Moisture and Drainage

While it's essential to keep the soil moist, you must ensure that the soil drains well to prevent waterlogging. Hot Lips plants are susceptible to root rot if the roots sit in stagnant water. A good rule of thumb is to let the top layer of soil dry out before watering again, ensuring the water doesn't pool at the bottom of the pot or garden bed.

Signs of Overwatering or Underwatering

Overwatering: Yellowing leaves, wilting despite wet soil, or root rot (smelly, dark roots) are clear signs of overwatering. If your Hot Lips is showing these symptoms, reduce watering and improve soil drainage.

Underwatering: If the plant's leaves are wilting or crispy, especially at the tips, or if the blooms are sparse, it's a sign of underwatering. Increase watering, but be cautious not to drown the plant when you do.

Fertilizing Hot Lips

Fertilizing is an important part of keeping your Hot Lips plant healthy and promoting vibrant blooms. Here's how to do it properly:

Importance of a Balanced Fertilizer

Hot Lips plants benefit from a balanced fertilizer that contains equal parts nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). Nitrogen promotes healthy foliage, phosphorus encourages strong root development and blooming, and potassium helps with overall plant health. Look for a slow-release fertilizer that feeds the plant gradually over time.

How and When to Fertilize

Fertilize your Hot Lips plant in early spring when growth begins and again in mid-summer to encourage blooming. For container-grown plants, apply fertilizer once every 4-6 weeks. If planting in the ground, you may only need to fertilize a few times during the growing season. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions to avoid overfertilizing, which can lead to poor growth.

Organic vs. Synthetic Fertilizers

Both organic fertilizers (like compost, worm castings, or fish emulsion) and synthetic fertilizers can work well for Hot Lips plants. Organic options improve the soil's structure and health over time, providing slow, steady nourishment. Synthetic fertilizers, on the other hand, offer quick-release nutrients, but overuse can lead to nutrient imbalances or salt build-up in the soil. It's a good idea to use a combination of both, depending on the plant's needs and your gardening preferences.

Pruning and Deadheading

Pruning and deadheading are essential tasks for maintaining the health and beauty of your Hot Lips plant:

The Role of Pruning

Pruning helps keep the plant looking tidy, encourages new growth, and removes damaged or diseased parts. Trim back any dead or brown leaves and spent stems to improve airflow and prevent disease. Pruning also helps to control the plant's shape, keeping it more compact and encouraging stronger growth in the following seasons.

How to Remove Dead Flowers and Stems

Deadheading, or removing spent flowers, not only makes the plant look more attractive, but it also redirects energy from seed production into further flowering. Simply pinch off the faded flowers at the base of the stem or use clean pruning shears to remove them. If you notice any damaged or diseased stems, prune them back to prevent the spread of infection and encourage healthy regrowth.

Encouraging Better Air Circulation

Regular pruning and trimming help the plant maintain good air circulation, which is crucial for preventing fungal diseases and promoting overall plant health.

Pests and Diseases

Hot Lips plants, like all garden plants, are susceptible to pests and diseases. Here's how to keep them in check:

Common Pests

Aphids and mealybugs are the most common pests that can target Hot Lips plants, often feeding on the sap of the plant and causing yellowing or curling of leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat these pests. Alternatively, you can wash the pests off with a gentle stream of water.
Spider mites can also become a problem, especially in dry conditions. These tiny pests leave behind webbing and cause leaves to turn yellow. Regularly misting the plant or placing it on a humidity tray can help deter them.

Preventing and Managing Fungal Diseases and Root Rot

Root rot is a common issue caused by overwatering and poor drainage. Prevent root rot by ensuring your plant has well-draining soil and by avoiding overwatering. If root rot is suspected, remove the plant from the soil and check the roots for decay. Trim off any affected roots, let the plant dry out, and repot it into fresh, well-draining soil.

Fungal diseases such as powdery mildew or leaf spots can occur in humid conditions. To prevent fungal problems, avoid overhead watering, which can leave the foliage wet for extended periods, and ensure the plant has enough airflow around it. Infected leaves can be removed, and a fungicide may be necessary in severe cases.

Eco-Friendly Pest Control Tips

Use organic methods such as companion planting to deter pests. Plants like marigolds or garlic can help repel aphids and other insects.
Introduce natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings, which feed on aphids and other harmful pests.
DIY sprays, such as neem oil, soap and water solutions, or garlic-infused water, can be effective at managing pests without harming the plant or the environment.

Repotting and Transplanting

Repotting or transplanting your Hot Lips Plant is necessary when it outgrows its current container or when the soil becomes depleted of nutrients. Here's how to maintain the plant's health through repotting:

Signs That the Plant Needs to Be Repotted:

Root-bound: If you notice roots growing out of the drainage holes or circling the base of the pot, it's a clear sign that the plant has become root-bound and needs a larger container.
Stunted growth: When the plant stops growing or appears to be struggling despite good care, it may be time for a new pot with fresh soil.
Soil depletion: If the soil seems to dry out too quickly, or the plant shows signs of nutrient deficiency (yellowing leaves, poor flowering), it might be time to repot with fresh soil.

How to Repot or Transplant Hot Lips Without Damaging the Roots:

Choose the Right Pot: Select a container that is about 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. Ensure it has good drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
Prepare the New Pot: Add a layer of well-draining soil mix at the bottom of the new pot. Use a mix of cactus soil, perlite, and compost for the best results.
Remove the Plant Carefully: Gently remove the Hot Lips plant from its old pot, being cautious not to damage the roots. If it's root-bound, carefully untangle the roots with your hands.
Check the Roots: Trim any damaged or rotten roots with clean scissors or pruning shears before placing the plant in the new pot.
Place in New Pot and Water: Place the plant in the new pot, filling in around it with fresh soil. Water thoroughly to help settle the soil around the roots. Ensure the top of the root ball is slightly below the rim of the pot for easy watering.

Temperature and Humidity Adjustments

Hot Lips plants are native to Australia, where the climate is warm and sunny. Here's how to adjust the environment for different seasons:

How to Adjust the Environment for Winter or Hot Weather to Ensure the Plant Thrives Year-Round:

Winter Care: If you live in cooler climates (outside of USDA zones 9-11), bring your Hot Lips plant indoors before the first frost. Place it near a bright south-facing window to provide the necessary sunlight. Keep the room temperature between 60-70°F (15-21°C) to mimic its natural environment.
Hot Weather Care: In the summer months or during hot spells, ensure the Hot Lips plant is not exposed to extreme heat (above 90°F / 32°C). While it thrives in full sun, high heat can cause wilting or leaf burn. Ensure it has enough water during hot weather, but avoid waterlogging the roots.

The Importance of Indoor Placement for Cooler Climates and Outdoor Garden Beds in Warmer Zones:

Indoor Placement (Cooler Climates): In cooler zones, keep the Hot Lips plant indoors during winter months. Choose a spot with plenty of sunlight, and ensure the plant is kept away from cold drafts or heating vents, as extreme temperature fluctuations can stress the plant.
Outdoor Garden Beds (Warmer Climates): In regions with milder winters (zones 9-11), Hot Lips can remain in outdoor garden beds year-round. Ensure they are planted in well-drained, sunny spots to encourage growth and blooming. Mulching around the base can help moderate soil temperature and retain moisture.

Encouraging Blooming

A healthy Hot Lips plant is known for its vibrant blooms, but there are a few essential steps you can take to ensure the plant flowers profusely:

How to Encourage Vibrant Blooms During the Flowering Season:

Sunlight: Make sure the plant receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. Adequate sunlight is crucial for producing the bright, colorful flowers that Hot Lips is famous for.
Temperature: Hot Lips plants bloom best in moderate to warm temperatures. Ensure that the plant is not exposed to temperature extremes, especially in the blooming season.
Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer to encourage blooming. A slow-release fertilizer with equal parts of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) will promote both healthy foliage and vibrant blooms.

Light and Temperature Conditions for Optimal Blooming:

During the flowering season, keep the plant in an environment where the temperature is between 60-85°F (15-29°C). Too much heat can cause the blooms to fade quickly, while too little light will result in fewer flowers.

If your plant is in a container, rotate it occasionally to ensure even sunlight distribution, encouraging uniform blooming.

The Significance of Seasonal Care:

During winter dormancy, reduce watering and fertilizer to allow the plant to rest. Hot Lips generally goes dormant in cooler months, so the reduced watering and lack of feeding will help prevent root rot and stress.

Lower watering and keep the plant in a cooler but bright location during the dormant period to ensure it comes back strong in the spring.

Regular Monitoring and Maintenance

Regular care is key to keeping your Hot Lips plant healthy and thriving:

Best Practices for Checking the Plant Regularly for Signs of Stress, Pests, or Diseases:

Inspect the leaves for signs of yellowing, spotting, or wilting, which may indicate a watering issue or pest infestation.
Check the roots during repotting or if the plant is showing signs of poor growth to ensure they are healthy and not rotting.
Regularly inspect for pests like aphids, mealybugs, or spider mites, especially in warmer months. If you see any signs of pest infestation, act promptly with an eco-friendly pesticide like neem oil or insecticidal soap.

Routine Maintenance Tips:

Cleaning Leaves: Dust can accumulate on the leaves, blocking sunlight and affecting the plant's ability to photosynthesize. Gently wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust or debris. This also helps prevent pests.
Check Soil Moisture: Regularly check the soil moisture to avoid overwatering or underwatering. A moisture meter or simply sticking your finger into the soil can help determine when it's time to water.
Adjusting Care Based on Seasonal Changes: As the seasons change, adjust your care routine. For example, reduce watering in winter and increase it during the growing season in spring and summer. Always respond to the plant's needs based on its growth stage and environmental conditions.

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Hot Lips Plant​: Care & Growing Guide