Goldfish Plant
columnea microphylla
Also known as: ["Columnea microphylla","Goldfish Plant"]
Overview
A trailing epiphytic plant with small, dark green leaves and distinctive orange-red, goldfish-shaped flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","aesthetic foliage","fragrant flowers"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Gesneriaceae |
| Genus: | Columnea |
| Botanical Name: | Columnea microphylla |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor hanging basket or shelf in a warm, humid room
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–27°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"11–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high humidity levels
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, airy mix with peat, perlite, and orchid bark.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 2–3 months; major pruning annually or biannually.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth for rejuvenation.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; avoid direct sun which can scorch leaves.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to new light conditions; place in east-facing windows or under sheer curtains; shield from intense afternoon sun.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
bright, indirect light
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer blinds to filter direct light; monitor for leaf burn.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but allow excess to drain; maintain consistent moisture without saturation.
Soil
well-draining, peat-based potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–6.5).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; topdress with fresh mix annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); cooler temperatures (55–60°F or 13–15°C) at night are tolerated.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain stable conditions; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during active growth (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; 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 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F or 21–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut just above leaf nodes to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove leggy or dead stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead/damaged stems; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; 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 at the base, ensuring even saturation of the root zone; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues; ensure water drains freely from the pot.
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 or compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, wilting, or stunted growth; yellowing or browning leaf edges.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf drop; prolonged cold can lead to root damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots from cold surfaces; avoid drafts.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Increase humidity; provide shade; water more frequently but avoid overwatering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid foliage contact.
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
Slightly ToxicColumnea microphylla can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in cats if ingested. The plant is not highly toxic but may lead to discomfort in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Columnea microphylla can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic but can cause discomfort if consumed in significant quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicColumnea microphylla contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can be problematic for sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Columnea microphylla?
A: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, typically every 7-10 days, ensuring good drainage to prevent root rot.
Q: Does Columnea microphylla need direct sunlight?
A: It prefers bright, indirect light; direct sunlight can scorch its leaves.
Q: Why are the leaves of my Columnea microphylla turning yellow?
A: Yellow leaves may indicate overwatering, underwatering, or insufficient light; adjust care accordingly.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Gesneriaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright, indirect light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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