Goldfish plants, scientifically known as Nematanthus, are tropical plants recognized for their unique, pouch-like flowers. These blooms often display vibrant hues of orange, red, or yellow, earning the plant its common name from their resemblance to tiny, leaping goldfish. Native to the warm, humid forests of Brazil, where they typically grow as epiphytes on trees, goldfish plants are a popular choice for indoor cultivation and hanging baskets.
Understanding Goldfish Plants: Common Features
Goldfish plants exhibit a trailing or mounding growth habit, making them well-suited for hanging baskets where their stems can cascade. Their foliage consists of small to medium-sized, oval leaves that are thick, glossy, and often dark green. These evergreen leaves contrast with the brightly colored flowers. The distinctive flowers are tubular and swollen at the base, creating a “pouch” with a small opening at the tip, giving them their characteristic fish-like shape. They can reach up to 12 inches in height, with trailing stems extending over three feet, and prefer bright, indirect light and a well-draining soil mix.
Popular Goldfish Plant Varieties
Several Nematanthus varieties are popular for their unique aesthetic qualities, offering a range of flower colors, foliage patterns, and growth habits. Each cultivar provides a distinct visual appeal.
Nematanthus gregarius
The species Nematanthus gregarius is often considered the classic goldfish plant, known for its brilliant orange, tubular flowers. Its fleshy, glossy, dark green, oval leaves sometimes have a darker underside or a brown line along the edge. This variety exhibits a bushy, drooping habit, with stems that initially grow upright before arching and trailing, making it an excellent choice for hanging displays. Flowering can occur throughout much of the year, often peaking in summer.
Nematanthus ‘Tropicana’
Nematanthus ‘Tropicana’ is a striking cultivar known for its unique flower coloration and robust growth. Its golden yellow flowers have prominent red or maroon stripes and spots. The foliage is typically dark green, glossy, and thick, contrasting with its vibrant blooms. This variety tends to have a full, bushy habit and blooms prolifically year-round.
Nematanthus ‘Black Pagoda’
Nematanthus ‘Black Pagoda’ is distinguished by its unique foliage, featuring mottled dark-green leaves, sometimes with a reddish or bronze hue, often described as “black.” It produces bright orange, tubular flowers that stand out against the darker leaves. ‘Black Pagoda’ has a cascading growth habit, making it suitable for hanging baskets where its mottled foliage and colorful blooms can be appreciated.
Nematanthus ‘Candy Corn’
The Nematanthus ‘Candy Corn’ plant, sometimes referred to as ‘Brazilian Firecracker’, is named for its distinctive orange and yellow tubular flowers that evoke the appearance of candy corn. These vibrant blooms emerge against shiny green foliage. This variety typically has a trailing, vine-like growth pattern, making it a good selection for hanging baskets or shelves.
Nematanthus ‘Christmas Holly’
Nematanthus ‘Christmas Holly’ is a popular hybrid known for its small, shiny, deep glossy green leaves, which can sometimes appear almost black. Its flowers are typically pumpkin-orange and pouch-shaped, resembling small goldfish. This variety is noted for its ability to bloom year-round, with an impressive display often occurring in midwinter.
Nematanthus gregarius ‘Golden West’
Nematanthus gregarius ‘Golden West’ is a variegated form of the classic goldfish plant, prized for its ornamental foliage. Its small, glossy leaves are beautifully variegated with creamy white, yellow, and light green, often tinged with pink. This striking foliage provides a vibrant contrast to its apricot-orange flowers, which are typical of the species. ‘Golden West’ maintains the bushy, drooping habit characteristic of Nematanthus gregarius.
Selecting a Goldfish Plant Variety
When selecting a goldfish plant, consider its visual characteristics and how it fits your living space, as varieties differ primarily in flower color, foliage aesthetics, and overall growth habit. For classic bright orange blooms, Nematanthus gregarius is an ideal choice. If you seek unique patterns or variegated foliage, cultivars like ‘Tropicana’ (striped flowers) or ‘Golden West’ (multi-colored leaves) offer distinct visual interest. The growth habit, whether more compact or extensively trailing, should also influence your decision, especially for hanging baskets or limited spaces. Most varieties share similar basic care requirements, meaning your selection can largely be based on aesthetic appeal and how the plant’s form complements your home environment.