There are over 25 different varieties of nematanthus.
Although they all produce flowers that resemble goldfish, the
colors of the flowers and the shape and color of the leaves
varies from plant to plant. The flowers can be red, yellow,
or orange.
Light: These plants love bright
indirect light. In fact, if your goldfish is not blooming, try
moving it to a brighter location.
Temperature: Regular indoor
temperatures, ranging from 60-80 degrees are perfect.
Humidity: Unlike some interior
plants, goldfish do not require high humidity.
Water: Water the plant when
the soil is dry to the touch a few inches down. Remember, a
6” pot dries out faster than an 8” pot; always err
by under-watering rather than over-watering. If green leaves
start to fall off, you are over-watering.
Fertilizer: Feed monthly in
the winter and fall and every other week in the spring and summer
with a good plant food like miracle gro.
Pests: Aphids & especially
mealy bugs can infest goldfish plants. A good spray, be sure
to cover both sides of the leaves, with undiluted alcohol usually
gets rid of the pests. Aphids & mealy bugs usually appear
on the new growth first.
Appearance: Goldfish start
out as upright plants in a 6” or 8” pot. As they
grow, trailers develop and the plant then looks great hanging
in a basket or ceramic pot. If your goldfish becomes leggy,
just cut it back and watch it fill out again.