The goldfish plant, scientific name Nemathanthus gregarious, are perennial tropical plants native to Mexico, Brazil, and Costa Rica. There are over 150 varieties of this stunning plant. 

Keep reading to discover common goldfish plant characteristics, care tips, and how to propagate the plant from stem cuttings. 

Goldfish Plant Characteristics 

Goldfish plants are unique flowering plants that look lovely indoors. They have long, erect stems that can grow upwards or arch gently downwards like a vine. This characteristic makes them a particularly lovely hanging basket plant. 

Goldfish plants typically have small, waxy, dark-green leaves. Some varieties produce hairy leaves. In the spring and summer, goldfish plants produce bright red-orange and yellow, tube-shaped blooms that resemble leaping goldfish. 

In the wild, goldfish plants are epiphytes that grow on other plants and trees, similar to orchids. 

Goldfish Plant Varieties 

Goldfish plants are easily identifiable by their signature fish-like blooms. However, there are many different varieties, each with unique flower shapes and variegation patterns. Some goldfish plant varieties are also more compact growers, which makes them ideal container plants. 

Popular goldfish plant varieties include: 

• Aladdin’s Lamp
• Chanticleer 
• Fire Light 

Toxicity 

Goldfish plants are non-toxic to both cats and dogs. However, the plants are mildly toxic to humans if eaten and should be placed out of reach of small children. 

How to Care for a Goldfish Plant 

Caring for a goldfish plant indoors is easy. They have specific heat and humidity requirements as tropical plants but are otherwise simple to care for. 

Light

It is necessary to give goldfish plants consistent bright, indirect light to see the optimal number of blooms. Too much direct sunlight will cause crispy and brown leaves. A southern-facing window with filtered light is an ideal spot to watch the plant flourish. 

Soil 

Soil for a goldfish plant should be loose, acidic, and well-draining soil. African Violet potting mix is an ideal choice, although plant owners can make their potting mix with a heavy concentration of peat moss and perlite. 

As an indoor houseplant, goldfish plants prefer to be slightly rootbound. They only need to be repotted once every three years. 

Water 

The water needs of a goldfish plant are simple but specific. They should never be watered with cold water, as this can harm the leaves. It is also best to water the plant directly at the roots. If water sits on the foliage, it can also cause long-term damage. 

It is best to water a goldfish plant enough to maintain consistently moist soil, especially during the spring and summer months. They require significantly less water during the winter and can be allowed to dry out between waterings. 

Heat & Temperature 

Goldfish plants thrive in warm, humid temperatures. They generally prefer temperatures between 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit and a humidity level of 50% or higher. The lowest temperature they can tolerate is 60 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Plant owners who don’t have access to a humidifier can boost the humidity around the plant by misting it daily. It is also possible to boost the plant’s humidity by placing a tray of rocks and water nearby. The plant will appreciate the evaporating water from the tray. 

If the plant isn’t receiving enough humidity or the air around it is too cold, it will likely cause drooping stems and leaf drops. 

Pruning 

If left to their own devices, goldfish plants will grow up to 3 feet tall. However, to encourage more robust growth and better blooms some light pruning may be necessary. 

Plant owners can pinch off newer items as they appear. This action forces the plant to put its energy into the existing stems and create strong, vibrant blooms. Gentle pruning also encourages the plant to grow bushier and keeps the stems from getting leggy. 

Pests & Diseases 

Goldfish plants that live indoors are susceptible to common houseplant pests and diseases. Common pests include mealybugs, spider mites, and aphids. Goldfish plants also struggle with moldy soil and fungus-related diseases. These are often a result of overwatering or getting water on their delicate foliage.

Goldfish Plant Propagation 

Plant owners are often unsure how to propagate a goldfish plant. However, all it takes is some plant shears and a little bit of patience to see results. 

With a pair of sharp, clean shears, snip several stems from the main plant. Dip the goldfish plant cuttings in a rooting hormone powder to help encourage the roots to grow. Then, plant the cuttings in an appropriate soil mixture and place them in a bright, warm, humid location. It is also necessary to keep the cuttings well-watered.

Propagated goldfish plants will bloom the following year. 

Conclusion 

There are few houseplants as stunning as the goldfish plant. With their lovely dark green foliage and vibrant orange blooms, they make for a beautiful addition to any room.