Goldfish Plant
nematanthus wettsteinii
Also known as: ["Hypocyrta glabra","Nematanthus gregarius"]
Overview
A trailing evergreen plant with small, glossy leaves and bright orange, goldfish-shaped flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","aesthetic foliage","fragrant flowers"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Gesneriaceae |
| Genus: | Nematanthus |
| Botanical Name: | Nematanthus wettsteinii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a bright room with high humidity, such as a bathroom or kitchen
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–27°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days, especially in dry indoor environments to maintain humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with peat or orchid bark for acidity and aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; trim back up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light; protect from intense direct sun to prevent leaf burn; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderateeasy
Sunlight
bright, indirect light; protected from direct sunlight
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct light; provide dappled shade outdoors.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; ensure good drainage; avoid letting the plant sit in water.
Soil
well-draining, peat-based potting mix with added perlite or sand
pH: Slightly acidic, 5.5–6.5.
Use a mix designed for epiphytes or orchids; avoid heavy garden soil; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Ideal range 65–80°F (18–27°C); prefers stable temperatures; avoid drafts or sudden fluctuations.
Avoid placing near vents or windows with extreme temperatures; maintain stable conditions; monitor with a thermometer.
Fertilizing
every 2–4 weeks during active growth (spring and summer), with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 3–4 inch cutting with leaves.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in medium.
- Keep moist.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix or water with occasional change.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pot or jar.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity around cuttings; change water if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
To maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove leggy growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead or diseased parts; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water sparingly 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 thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture distribution; water early in the day to allow foliage to dry; avoid wetting leaves excessively to prevent fungal issues.
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 sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like peat moss for acidity; ensure loose structure.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, wilting, or bud drop; stunted growth in extreme conditions.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; maintain consistent temperatures.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or dehydration; reduced flowering in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicNematanthus wettsteinii is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects following ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicNematanthus wettsteinii is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects following ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicNematanthus wettsteinii, commonly known as the goldfish plant, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why are my Goldfish Plant's leaves turning yellow?
A: Yellow leaves can indicate overwatering, underwatering, or low humidity. Adjust watering and ensure proper drainage.
Q: How often should I water my Goldfish Plant?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7-10 days, depending on conditions.
Q: Does the Goldfish Plant need direct sunlight?
A: It prefers bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Gesneriaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright, indirect light; protec |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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