Scientific Name — Columnea gloriosa

Common Name(s) — Goldfish Plant

Plant Family — Gesneriaceae

Background

Columnea gloriosa, commonly known as the Goldfish Plant for its bright orange, fish-shaped flowers, is native to South America and the Caribbean. Waxy, dark green leaves that cascade make this a beautiful hanging plant with elegant contrasting colors.

Pinching of the growing tips will encourage it to branch, giving it a fuller look. 

Growth Requirements

Sun

Columnea gloriosa loves bright indirect light. Keep it in a brightly lit room where the sun does not hit its leaves directly for more than an hour, as excess direct sun can burn the leaves. 

A north-facing window is great, but an east- or west-facing room well away from the window may be better. Avoid southern exposure.

Temperature/ Humidity 

Columnea gloriosa likes room temperatures between 65 and 75 ºF.  They should always be kept above 55 ºF. Leaves will drop from this plant if it is exposed to lower temperatures.  

These rainforest dwellers love high humidity. Hang near a room humidifier or mist daily with room-temperature water.

Water

Allow the soil to dry completely to a depth of 2 inches between waterings.  Water thoroughly when dry and let the excess drain out the bottom of the planter.  Water more often during the spring and summer months.

Reduce watering as often in the fall and winter months. If you water less often in the winter, you’ll be rewarded with more goldfish blossoms come spring.

Soil/Roots

Use a well-aerated and light potting mix for Columnea gloriosa. A quality potting soil amended with up to 50% coco coir is perfect.

Flowering

Look out for dozens of goldfish blooms on a mature Columnea gloriosa come spring and summer. Limiting watering during winter will encourage a dramatic spring with more blossoms.

Fertilization

In spring and summer, fertilize twice a month with an organic houseplant fertilizer, diluted by half. 

Propagation

Columnea gloriosa can be propagated in spring or summer by stem cuttings.

• Take a 4” stem tip cutting

• Dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder

• Secure the cutting in moist potting mix

Health

Diseases and Pests

The most common insect pests for Columnea gloriosa in homes are scale and mealybugs. Spider mites can occasionally be a problem as well.

Overwatering can cause root rot. Leaf spot diseases can be a problem and are usually caused by improper watering. Prune away infected limbs.

Maintenance (pruning, legginess, repotting)

This plant likes to be slightly rootbound and may bloom better in a more confined space. 

If it’s spring or summer and growing has slowed, it’s time to repot. Put your Columnea gloriosa in a new pot (with drainage) that is about 2 inches wider than the previous pot.

Plants can be selectively pruned to keep the vines from getting too long and to encourage new growth for a fuller look.  You can cut back to 2 inches from the base if necessary. Also trim any dead or discolored leaves.

Dust or wash leaves frequently to prevent dust from clogging the plant’s pores.

Toxicity 

Columnea gloriosa is non-toxic to people and pets.

FAQs

How can I give my Columnea gloriosa the humidity it requires?

If you don’t live in a naturally humid climate, here are some tips:

• Run a humidifier near the plant

• Mist the leaves frequently with room-temperature water

• Place the pot on a pebble tray filled with water

It can also help to group humidity-loving plants together to create a more hospitable microclimate.

How can I encourage my Goldfish Plant to produce more blooms?

Light, water, humidity levels, and pot size all play a role.

Columnea gloriosa prefers bright light, but light should never hit the leaves directly for more than an hour a day. Watering more in the spring and summer but less in the fall and winter encourages blooming.

Your Goldfish Plant also likes being a bit rootbound, so don’t repot it unless it has truly outgrown its container.

Can I prune my Columnea gloriosa to encourage growth?

Yes. To create a fuller appearance, rather than a leggy one, pinch back new growth. This makes the branches grow with a more compact appearance.