Nematanthus ‘Champagne Jam’ is a charming houseplant, prized for its attractive foliage and distinctive, colorful flowers. This plant brings an appealing touch to indoor spaces, making it a popular choice for many plant enthusiasts.
Understanding Nematanthus Champagne Jam
Nematanthus ‘Champagne Jam’ is known as a Goldfish Plant due to its pouch-like flowers resembling tiny goldfish. This evergreen perennial, a member of the Gesneriaceae family, is native to Brazil and often grows as an epiphyte. It features glossy, dark green leaves, often with red to maroon undersides, and has a trailing habit, making it ideal for hanging baskets. Its orange tubular flowers, typically with a green base, emerge in spring and summer, hanging below the foliage.
Essential Care for Nematanthus Champagne Jam
Light Requirements
Nematanthus ‘Champagne Jam’ thrives in bright, indirect light. Placing the plant a few feet from a sunny window or near a window covered with a sheer curtain provides ideal light. Too much direct sunlight scorches leaves, while insufficient light leads to leggy growth and reduced flowering. An east-facing window is suitable, providing adequate brightness without harsh direct sun.
Watering Techniques
Consistent moisture is important, but avoid waterlogged soil. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, ensuring thorough watering until it drains from the bottom. Proper drainage holes prevent standing water and root rot. During winter, reduce watering, allowing the soil to become slightly drier between waterings.
Soil Mix
A well-draining, airy potting mix is suitable. A blend of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite provides drainage and aeration. Avoid heavy soils that retain excessive moisture to prevent root issues. As an epiphyte, it requires a mix that drains quickly.
Temperature and Humidity
It prefers temperatures between 65°F and 75°F (18°C to 24°C). It is sensitive to cold drafts and temperatures below 50°F (10°C), which cause leaf drop. It thrives in moderate to high humidity. To increase humidity, mist the leaves with room-temperature water, group plants together, or place the pot on a pebble tray.
Fertilization
During the active growing season (spring and summer), fertilize regularly. Apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once a month, or every two weeks, at half strength. Reduce or stop feeding during fall and winter when growth slows. A phosphorus-rich fertilizer encourages more abundant blooms.
Propagating Nematanthus Champagne Jam
Propagation is straightforward, typically achieved through stem cuttings. Select healthy, non-flowering stems 3 to 6 inches long. Make a clean cut just below a leaf node, where new roots are most likely to form. Remove lower leaves, leaving a few at the top.
Cuttings can be rooted in a moist potting mix (e.g., peat moss and perlite) or directly in water. Optionally, dip the cut end in rooting hormone to enhance success. Place potted cuttings in bright, indirect light and cover with a clear plastic bag or humidity dome to create a humid environment. Roots typically develop within 4-6 weeks, after which new plants can be gradually acclimated to normal humidity.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Yellowing leaves often indicate overwatering, poor drainage, or nutrient deficiencies. Allowing the top inch of soil to dry before watering and ensuring drainage holes helps. If not blooming, it may require more light or a phosphorus-rich fertilizer to encourage flowering. Insufficient light also leads to leggy growth.
Leaf drop indicates improper watering (too much or too little) or environmental stress like temperature fluctuations. Wilting or drooping leaves can be caused by overwatering (leading to root rot) or underwatering. Common pests like mealybugs, spider mites, and aphids weaken the plant by feeding on its sap. Regular inspection and good air circulation help prevent infestations; insecticidal soap sprays are an effective treatment.