Goldfish plants commonly referred to as Nematanthus or Columnea are among the favorite indoor plants and can also be bred as aquarium plants. Producing stunning foliage colours, these plants will provide instant colour and low maintenance plants are perfect for both an expert and a beginner. As promised in my previous blog post, we will be discussing more today about goldfish plants to include their descriptions, the need for their care, and where they can grow- land or water.
Characteristics of Goldfish Plants
Goldfish plants refer to tropical epiphytic plants which grow on any structure best on trees in their natural habitats. Their striking, tubular flowers resemble goldfish tails, giving them their name.It could by any colour of the rainbow ranging from red, orange, yellow and pink among others. The typical shape of goldfish plant leaves is small oval-shaped.
Goldfish Plants as Houseplants
Goldfish plants can be recommended for home cultivation because they are not very demanding of care. Here’s a brief overview of their care:
Light: There are several things to know about this plant just like most foliage plants it loves lots of bright light but indirect one at that. Always make sure that the plant does not come into direct contact with the sunlight because it scorches the plant.
Temperature: The optimal time frame should be kept between 180 minutes and the temperature should be between 65-80°F, 18-27°C. Such conditions as cold draft or changes of temperature should not be taken near them.
Humidity: It may also important to note that Goldfish plants like high humidity. Water the leaves often or better still you keep the humidity up by misting them or use an electric humidifier.
Watering: Always water the soil just up to field capacity but not more than that. Avoid over watering your plant let the top inch of the soil to dry out before you water it again.
Fertilizer: Feed the goldfish plant a balanced liquid fertilizer during its growing period in spring and summer.
Goldfish Plants in Aquariums
People commonly use goldfish plants as home ornaments, but you can also grow them hydroponically in a fish tank. Here are some key considerations for growing goldfish plants underwater:
Aquarium setup:Structure your fish tank in order to have a few darker areas you can mimic their habitat by placing rocks or driftwood in the tank.
Water parameters: Your aquarium water should have a pH of 6.0-7.5 and water temperature of 72-78 Ф (22-26 С).
Lighting: Give adequate amount of light so that it grows right. It is also important to do it in low light because too much light favors the growth of algae.
Nutrition: Goldfish plants are capable of drawing nutrients right from the water in an aquarium. Still, sometimes you may have to top up their diet with liquid fertilizer that is appropriate for water plants.
Propagate goldfish plants by taking cuttings. To propagate a goldfish plant, gather the stem cutting, which should measure at least 4 inches long and then strip the lower leaves and the flower. For cuttings, place the cutting in a good potting mix that has good drainage then water consistently. The cut should take root in approximately two to four weeks’ time.
Common Pests and Diseases
It is also noteworthy that (most plants belonging to the goldfish plants group are relatively free from pest and diseases attack). However they are vulnerable to mealy bugs and spider mite attack. Should you see any insects, spray them immediately with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Goldfish Plant Varieties
There are several different varieties of goldfish plants, each with unique characteristics:
Nematanthus gregorii: This variety stays green, while the flowers are bright red in color.
Nematanthus glaucophyllus: The variety has silver gray foliage and orange red inflorescence.
Nematanthus coccineus: It produces brilliant scarlet flowers together with blackish green foliage.
Conclusion
Indoor gardens and aquariums can showcase goldfish plants, which are both resilient and attractive. Due to their special forms and moderate demands they are popular among plant lovers. If you like to make them grow on land or water, gold fish plants will surely give the lively color to your place.
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