The native land of Goldfish plant is the tropics of Central America, Costa Rica and the Caribbean. In wild nature this is an epiphytic plant, so under indoor conditions it feels good grown in hanging baskets. Goldfish plant is a wonderful present for those who are fond of window gardening, for its whimsical orange flowers may be a gorgeous ornament of the room. Goldfish plant got its name justly, as its intricate flowers give an impression of flying goldfish.
Types of Goldfish Plant
Nematanthus is a widespread houseplant that is also called Goldfish plant. Its flowers seem to be half-closed and have a form of a small pouch with bulged edge. Thus they remind goldfish without spinal fin. The flowers are generally orange and red, but hybrids may vary in coloration. The leaves are small, thick and succulent. Nematanthus tends to branch, that's why specialists recommend growing it in a hanging basket.
Another type of Goldfish plant is known as Columnea. Columnea includes 200 various species, and the most popular are Columnea glabra, Columnea orientandina and Columnea flexiflora. The flowers are large, bright and tubular, too. The most prevalent colors are red, orange and yellow.
What Should You Know About Goldfish Plant Maintenance?
Goldfish plant is not difficult to care for, yet you should take into consideration the plants peculiarities of life in wild nature. As Goldfish plant is originally a tropical epiphytic plant, you should make the conditions of its maintenance similar to the natural ones.
The plant requires good air circulation and bright light, but it shouldn't be kept in direct sunrays. Temperature should be equal to 55F or higher, as Goldfish plants are frost tender. However, some species need cooler temperatures for originally they grow at high altitude.
Much attention should be paid to the humidity. You should water the plant regularly, so that the soil is always a bit moist. However in winter it is necessary to let it dry out a little. The leaves should be sprinkled twice or at least once a day to prevent the plant from mealy bugs.
The plant prefers to be cramped, and it is blossoming better when potbound. You may fertilize soil when the plant is blooming, but in winter it is not necessary. Goldfish plant refers to seasonal bloomers, so if you want your plant to blossom in any season you should better purchase a hybrid. The plant should be pruned after flowering.
So, this fascinating plant is comparatively easy to cultivate. And even if you have not succeeded and your Goldfish plant seems to be ill or injured, you may just cut a stem and implant it. After a while, you will enjoy looking at this luxurious plant flowering again.
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