Hairy Goldfish Plant
columnea hirta
Also known as: ["Hairy Columnea","Velvety Goldfish Plant"]
Overview
A trailing epiphytic plant with velvety leaves and bright orange-red, goldfish-shaped flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Gesneriaceae |
| Genus: | Columnea |
| Botanical Name: | Columnea hirta |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor hanging basket or shelf in a humid environment
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–28°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"11–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, peat-based mix with perlite or orchid bark.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Every 2–3 months or as needed to maintain shape.
- 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 lower light in summer to prevent leaf burn.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate to brighter light; protect from direct sun; place in east-facing windows for ideal indirect light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
bright, indirect light
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid wetting foliage.
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 organic matter annually.
Temperature
Ideal range 65–75°F (18–24°C); prefers stable temperatures, avoiding extremes below 60°F or above 80°F.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain stable indoor temps; use a thermometer to monitor.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during active growth (spring and summer), every 3 months with slow-release fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize after watering to avoid root shock; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with leaf nodes; can also propagate via division.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cutting, apply hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity, wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm (70–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 3–6 weeks; new growth in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Remove leggy growth, spent flowers, and overcrowded stems to encourage bushier growth and better flowering.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune selectively, remove dead/damaged growth, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation and fresh soil.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, trim roots, use fresh soil, water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, avoid foliage wetting
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation; allow excess water to drain completely; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like peat moss for moisture retention.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, wilting, yellowing, or stunted growth; buds may fail to open.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root rot due to reduced water uptake.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; maintain consistent room temperature.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; increased water loss can lead to dehydration.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently; use shade cloth if outdoors.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, water before feeding, flush periodically
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-toxicColumnea hirta is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicColumnea hirta is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicColumnea hirta is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Columnea hirta?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, ensuring the pot has good drainage to prevent root rot.
Q: Does Columnea hirta need direct sunlight?
A: It prefers bright, indirect light; direct sunlight can scorch its leaves.
Q: Why are the leaves of my Columnea hirta turning yellow?
A: Yellow leaves may indicate overwatering, underwatering, or insufficient light.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Gesneriaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright, indirect light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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