about the product
Agapetes lacei (Himalayan Red Lantern) is a rare evergreen shrub from the Himalayan region, admired for its clusters of brilliant scarlet, lantern-shaped flowers that bloom gracefully from hanging stems. Naturally growing as an epiphyte in cool mountain forests, it thrives in bright filtered light with excellent airflow and a free-draining growing medium. Compared with many flowering plants, Agapetes lacei is slow growing but highly rewarding, making it a unique collector's plant that brings an elegant, tropical touch to any plant collection when in bloom.
sizing
Size approximately 57 mm x 150 mm, around 150 g / 0.15 kg (equivalent to around 3–5 years old)
CARING TIPS
Note
The following care guide is suggested based on the weather conditions of NSW and VIC. For other Australian states, please use this as a reference and adjust according to your local climate.
Origin
SE Tibet to Western Yunnan, China
Subtropical montane forest habitat
Epiphytic on trees, cliffs, ledges, boulders and mossy rocks
Life Cycle & Dormancy
Spring – Autumn → active growth
Usually grows best during mild, humid weather
Produces arching stems with small glossy green leaves
Pendant red to green-tipped flowers may appear from winter to early spring
Winter → slower growth, not fully dormant
May slow down during cold or low-light periods
Avoid treating it like a dry dormant caudex
Soil
Very airy, fast draining mix
Acidic, epiphytic-style mix recommended
Fine bark, perlite, pumice, sphagnum moss & charcoal work well
Keep the mix open, light and breathable
Avoid heavy, alkaline or compacted potting mix
Watering
Keep lightly moist but never waterlogged
Water when the mix is partly dry, not bone dry
Spring – Autumn → regular light watering with good airflow
During humid or rainy weeks, wait longer between watering
Winter → reduce watering slightly but do not keep completely dry
Do not let the rootstock sit in cold, wet soil
Light
Bright indirect light to gentle morning sun
Morning sun is ideal
Strong filtered light encourages compact growth and flowering
Protect from harsh afternoon sun during heatwaves
Best grown with bright light, humidity and very good airflow
Temperature
Best: 12–24°C
Prefers cool to mild conditions over extreme heat
Winter minimum: 5–8°C if kept sheltered and well ventilated
Protect from frost, hot dry wind and long wet periods
Move under cover during extended rainy weeks or summer heatwaves
SHIPPING & RETURNS
Plant may drop its leaves during shipping or in Sydney’s cooler months, especially from June to August. This is normal, as the plant is deciduous and can naturally enter dormancy during autumn and winter. New leaves will usually grow back once the weather becomes warmer and brighter.
After arrival, soak the plant in water or diluted HB101 / Seasol for 3–5 hours. Then keep it in shade for 1–2 days to recover and adapt gently.
For live plants, we ship them bareroot (roots only, without soil and pot). This helps make the shipping process smoother, faster, and safer, while also greatly reducing the risk of root rot during transit.
Pots, soil mixes, and fertilizers will be packed carefully and shipped securely.
You can read the full shipping policy here.