Aeschynanthus longicaulis – Info and Care Tips
Aeschynanthus longicaulis (syn. Aeschynanthus marmoratus), commonly called the Zebra Basket Vine, is a stunning tropical plant celebrated for its dramatic marbled foliage and trailing habit. Native to the humid evergreen forests of Thailand, Malaysia, Laos, and Vietnam, it is a member of the Gesneriaceae family, related to African violets and Streptocarpus. Its deep green leaves with silver veining and vibrant purple undersides make it a true showstopper for hanging baskets and elevated shelves.
Key Features of Aeschynanthus longicaulis

Marbled Foliage: Dark green leaves with striking silver patterns for a natural, textured look.
Vibrant Undersides: Deep purple leaf undersides create dramatic contrast when viewed from below.
Trailing Habit: Flexible stems cascade beautifully, ideal for vertical displays.
Compact Growth: Individual leaves measure 3–7 cm, making it perfect for limited spaces.

Origin, Habitat, and Botanical Facts

Native Range: Thailand, Laos, Malaysia, and Vietnam.
Natural Habitat: Grows as an epiphyte in humid evergreen forests, attached to tree bark or rocky surfaces under filtered light.
Growth Habit: Trailing epiphyte with thin, woody stems that extend gracefully over time.
Toxicity: Non-toxic to pets and humans.
Lifecycle: Perennial evergreen with steady year-round growth under proper conditions.

Aeschynanthus longicaulis Care Guide
 → Light Requirements

Thrives in bright, indirect light.
Tolerates moderate light but avoid direct sun, which can bleach foliage.

 → Watering

Allow the top 2–3 cm of soil to dry out between waterings.
Use filtered or rainwater to prevent leaf spotting from minerals.

 → Humidity

Prefers moderate to high humidity (50–70%).
Use a humidifier or place near a pebble tray for best results indoors.

 → Temperature

Ideal range: 18–24°C.
Protect from cold drafts and avoid sudden temperature drops below 15°C.

 → Soil and Potting

Use a fast-draining epiphytic mix based on orchid bark, coconut fiber, and perlite.
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot.
Choose hanging baskets or shallow pots with drainage holes.

 → Fertilization

Feed monthly during spring and summer with a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer.

 → Propagation

Take stem cuttings with at least 1–2 nodes.
Root in water, moist moss, or light potting mix under high humidity.

 → Pruning and Maintenance

Prune after flowering to control shape and encourage fuller growth.

Common Problems and Troubleshooting
 → Root Rot

Prevent by using a well-draining mix and never letting soil stay soggy.

 → Leaf Discoloration

Yellowing = overwatering or too much sun.
Faded colors = insufficient light.

 → Pest Issues

Spider Mites and Aphids: Control with insecticidal soap or neem oil sprays.

 → Wilting

Can occur from cold exposure or drought. Adjust watering and placement promptly.

Interesting Facts About Aeschynanthus longicaulis

Camouflage: Its variegated leaves help it blend into lichen-covered trees in the wild.
Related Species: Shares lineage with popular Gesneriads like African violets and Streptocarpus.

Botanical Name Meaning

Aeschynanthus: From Greek "aischyne" (shame) and "anthos" (flower), referencing hidden blooms.
Longicaulis: Latin for "long-stemmed," describing its trailing habit.

Frequently Asked Questions About Aeschynanthus longicaulis

How often should I repot?
Every 2–3 years or when root-bound.
Can I prune it to control its growth?
Yes, pruning encourages a bushier, fuller plant.
Best pot choice?
Hanging basket or well-draining decorative pot for best display.

Order Your Aeschynanthus longicaulis Today!
Transform your indoor jungle with the cascading beauty of Aeschynanthus longicaulis. Shop now and elevate your space with its exotic marbled foliage!