Goldfish Plant
nematanthus gregarius
Also known as: ["Nematanthus gregarius","Goldfish Plant"]
Overview
A trailing evergreen plant with small, glossy leaves and distinctive orange, goldfish-shaped flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","pet-friendly","aesthetic foliage","fragrant flowers"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Gesneriaceae |
| Genus: | Nematanthus |
| Botanical Name: | Nematanthus gregarius |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light or shaded outdoor garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–27°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry environments, less often in humid climates
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining mix like cactus or succulent soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or after flowering; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to morning sun in winter if needed.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; avoid harsh afternoon sun; place near east-facing windows indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderateeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to filtered light
Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains for filtered light; avoid direct summer sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering; ensure good drainage.
Soil
well-draining, peat-based potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–6.5).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Ideal range 65–80°F (18–27°C); prefers stable temperatures, cooler in winter (55–65°F).
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain stable conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize after watering; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 3–4 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in medium.
- Keep moist.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix like perlite and peat moss, or water propagation.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, container, water or soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy stems; keep cuttings humid; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Remove leggy growth and encourage bushier habit; prune after flowering to maintain shape.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead/damaged growth.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it’s not too large to avoid waterlogging.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; use fresh well-draining soil; ensure drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; promotes fresh soil and growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply until it drains from the bottom, ensuring root zone saturation; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, wilting, yellowing, or stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer spot; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicNematanthus gregarius is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not pose a significant health risk if ingested.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicNematanthus gregarius is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not pose a significant health risk if ingested.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicNematanthus gregarius is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in small quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water my Goldfish Plant?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7-10 days, ensuring good drainage to prevent root rot.
Q: Does the Goldfish Plant require direct sunlight?
A: It prefers bright, indirect light; direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.
Q: Why are the leaves of my Goldfish Plant turning yellow?
A: Yellow leaves may indicate overwatering, underwatering, or nutrient deficiencies; adjust watering and check soil conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Gesneriaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to filtered ligh |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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