About

Nematanthus is a genus of flowering plants in the family Gesneriaceae. All of its species are endemic to Brazil. Compared to other gesneriads, Nematanthus has leaves that are small, succulent, and hard-surfaced. The plant has a trailing, branching, and spreading habit; it is generally an epiphyte in nature and a hanging-basket plant in cultivation. The flower has fused petals. In some species, the flower has a "pouch" at the bottom. The fancied resemblance of such flowers to a goldfish gives these plants the common name goldfish plant or guppy plant.

Hummingbirds will often feed from the nectar-filled "goldfish" flowers.

How to grow it

Nematanthus thrive at temperatures between 18 and 25 °C (64 and 77 °F), although they stay more compact if grown at 15 to 17 °C (59 to 63 °F). They may lose their leaves if temperatures go above this level. Nematanthus gregarius is said to tolerate temperatures down to −1 to 2 °C (30 to 35 °F). Nematanthus do best in bright indirect light, and can easily burn in direct sunlight. They prefer high humidity, and grow better under these conditions, but adapt to household humidity. The tuberous roots of this plant retain water, and Nematanthus prefer the soil to remain moist, and well-drained. The goldfish plant enjoys being pot-bound, and is more likely to bloom in that state. When grown in the right conditions, Nematanthus is known to bloom year-round. To encourage new blooms, regular pruning of the plant is recommended. Plants can be propagated from cuttings.

Safety

Nematanthus is considered non-toxic and safe for pets by the ASPCA.

Other Nematanthus plants

Goldfish Flower