Goldfish Plant
Nematanthus gregarius
The goldfish plant is a tropical trailing houseplant named for its bright orange, pouched flowers that look like leaping goldfish among glossy dark green leaves.
- Light
- Bright indirect light
- Water
- When top inch dries; don't soak
- Difficulty
- Moderate
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Overview
The goldfish plant gets its name from its quirky, puffed-up orange flowers, each shaped like a tiny darting goldfish. It is a trailing tropical from the gesneriad family, related to African violets and lipstick plants.
Native to Brazil, Nematanthus gregarius blooms generously when given good light, dangling its colorful flowers among thick, waxy leaves on cascading stems, making it a striking choice for hanging baskets.
How to identify it
Distinguishing traits:
- Flowers: small, tubular, pouched, bright orange to orange-red, resembling goldfish
- Leaves: small, thick, glossy, dark green, oval, waxy
- Habit: trailing, slightly succulent stems good for hanging containers
- Size: stems trail to 2-3 ft
- Bloom time: can flower repeatedly through the warmer months in good light
Care & growing
Light: Bright indirect light is essential for blooming; avoid harsh midday sun.
Water: Water when the top inch dries; the slightly succulent leaves dislike constant wetness. Reduce in winter.
Soil: Light, well-draining, airy mix.
Temperature: 65-80F; protect from cold and drafts.
Feeding: A bloom-supporting fertilizer regularly during the growing season encourages flowering.
Propagation: Easy from stem-tip cuttings rooted in moist soil.
Habitat & origin
Nematanthus gregarius is native to the coastal rainforests of southeastern Brazil, where it grows as an epiphyte on trees in warm, humid, bright-shade conditions.
It is grown worldwide as a flowering houseplant, especially in hanging baskets where its trailing, bloom-laden stems can be appreciated.
Frequently asked questions
Why won't my goldfish plant bloom?
Most often not enough light. Give it bright indirect light and regular feeding during the growing season to encourage flowers.
How often should I water it?
When the top inch of soil dries. The semi-succulent leaves store water and dislike soggy soil.
Why are leaves dropping?
Often cold drafts, sudden temperature changes, or over/underwatering. Keep it warm and water consistently.
Goldfish Plant guides
In-depth guides for identifying, growing, and caring for Goldfish Plant.
