Goldfish plants are named for their lively red-orange flowers resembling leaping goldfish. These colourful blooms show off during Spring and Summer, creating a beautiful sight, especially when the plant matures in a hanging basket. They’re great for bright indoor spots or for hanging plants in baskets, adding bursts of colour. However, these plants can live for about ten years with reasonable care, needing occasional repotting and protection from dry or cold conditions.
Goldfish Plant Botanically known as Columnea spp. It is a non-toxic and safe household plant for kids and other companions[1]Houseplants: Safe and Toxic Varieties. Read.
Read: Goldfish Plant Care: Dealing with Common Diseases and Pests
Varieties of Goldfish Plant
The Goldfish plant (Columnea and Nematanthus genus) is known for its distinctive, tubular, orange or red flowers that resemble goldfish. There are several varieties and cultivars of goldfish plants, each with its unique characteristics; however, there are 30 species that are notably known varieties of goldfish plants. Here are a few notable cultivators:
- N. australis
- N. fornix
- N. maculatus
- N. striatus
- N. bradei
- N. fritschii
- N. mattosianus
- N. strigillosus
- N. brasiliensis
- N. gregarius
- N. mirabilis
- N. teixeiranus
- N. corticola
- N. hirtellus
- N. monanthos
- N. tessmannii
- N. crassifolius
- N. jolyanus
- N. sericeus
- N. villosus
- N. fissus
- N. kuhlmannii
- N. serpens
- N. wettsteinii
- N. flumimensis
- N. lanceolatus
Read: Goldfish Plant – Care, Propagation, and Varieties
Common Nematanthus Genera Goldfish Plant Varieties
Black Gold (Nematanthus ‘Black Gold’)
Known as the Black Gold Goldfish Plant, this variety is an easy-to-care-for house plant. Its shiny, dark green leaves are a beautiful backdrop to the vibrant orange, pouch-like blooms. Known as the ‘Goldfish Plant,’ it thrives on a sunny windowsill. Moreover, new growth reveals a reddish hue, adding to its visual appeal.
Nematanthus sp. (Gold Fish, Guppy Plant)
The Goldfish Plant (Nematanthus sp.), also known as Guppy Plants, is a specific cultivar that belongs to the Gesneriaceae family and is majorly found in Brazil. It is a Groundcover and low-growing plant 2-5 ft tall. However, its nature is Epiphyte, which means those plants grow on other plants. It can be grown in pots in cold regions. It is suitable for USDA Zone 9-11; it protects from cold below 10°C.
Flowering
It blooms throughout the year in vibrant colours like yellow, orange, red, crimson, and vinous, has unique pouched flowers, and is generally epiphytic. However, its flowering beauty attracts butterflies and hummingbirds.
Nematanthus ‘Bijou’ (Gold Fish, Guppy Plant)
A delightful small plant, Nematanthus ‘Bijou'(N. wettsteinii x N. fritschii) stands 2-5 ft tall, originating from South America’s tropical forests. Red, crimson, and vinous flowers adorn its evergreen leaves, contrasting their bright mauve undersides. Additionally, this goldfish plant attracts hummingbirds and butterflies, adding life to the garden. Hardy in USDA zones 10-11 requires protection from frost in colder climates.
Common Columnea Genera Goldfish Plant Varieties
Plants in the genus Columnea belong to the family Gesneriaceae. The genus includes several species commonly known as “Goldfish plants” due to the shape of their flowers.
- Columnea Gloriosa: This variety typically features bright orange flowers and glossy green leaves.
- Columnea Schiedeana (Columnea Minor): This variety has smaller, more elongated leaves and produces vibrant orange or red flowers.
- Columnea “Light”: This cultivar is known for its lighter-coloured flowers, often a pale orange or salmon.
- Columnea “Dark”: This cultivar may have deeper, darker shades of orange or red in its flowers.
- Columnea ‘Judith Barsi’: This hybrid variety has more significant and robust flowers than other Goldfish plant varieties.
- Columnea ‘Orange Popsicle‘: As the name suggests, this variety tends to have vivid orange flowers.
Goldfish Plant (Columnea x banksii ‘Carnival’)
The Goldfish Plant (Columnea x banksii ‘Carnival’) is a specific cultivar found in rain and cloud forests of the American tropics. It possesses an evergreen, woody climbing plant that is 2-5 ft tall and 1-2 ft wide. It can be grown in pots in cold regions. However, it is suitable for USDA Zone 9-11; it protects from cold below 10°C.
Flowering
It blooms throughout the year in vibrant colours like red, crimson, or vinous with yellow or orange petals. However, the flowering size is about 1.5 inches long and has a distinct spicy fragrance that attracts butterflies and hummingbirds.
Flying Goldfish Plant (Columnea sp.)
The Flying Goldfish Plant (Columnea sp.) is a specific cultivar that belongs to the Gesneriaceae family and is majorly found in Central and South America. It is a Groundcover and low-growing plant 2-5 ft tall. However, its nature is Epiphyte, which means those plants grow on other plants. It can be grown in pots in cold regions. It is suitable for USDA Zone 9-11; it protects from cold below 10°C.
Flowering Characteristics
It blooms in yellow, orange, red, crimson, vinous, and pink colours, providing a touch of natural beauty.
‘Light Prince’ Goldfish (Columnea hirta )
The ‘Light Prince’ or ‘Goldfish Plant’ is a stunning variegated version of the Columnea hirta species from Mexico. These plants bloom During the winter months with numerous charming orange flowers resembling goldfish. This feature adds a touch of unique beauty to your space, making it a delightful addition for plant enthusiasts and those new to plant care.
Columnea gloriosa
Columnea, a relative of African Violets, is commonly known as the “goldfish plant” due to its tubular blossoms resembling leaping fish. It may not bloom much in low-light winters, so maintaining slightly dry soil promotes vibrant spring flowers. Pinch back stems to 18 inches for bushier growth.
Bonus Information: Columnea purpureovittata (Trichantha purpureovittata)
Columnea purpureovittata, or Trichantha purpureovittata, is a small, colorful shrub from Central America categorized in the Gesneriaceae family that is 2-5 ft tall. However, its nature is Epiphyte, which means those plants grow on other plants. It can be grown in cold regions, above 40°F; protect in the cold areas. It is suitable for USDA Zone 9-11.
Flowering
While Goldfish plants are specifically known for their tubular, goldfish-shaped flowers, Columnea purpureovittata is recognized for its unusual and attractive foliage rather than distinctive flowers.
Conclusion
Goldfish plants, known for vibrant goldfish-like flowers, come in diverse varieties like ‘Light Prince,’ ‘Black Gold,’ Columnea Gloriosa, and Nematanthus ‘Bijou.’ However, these plants add colour and charm, thriving with proper care. This article has demonstrated various varieties of a Goldfish plant.
