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Description
Nematanthus Gregarius, also known as Goldfish Plant or Baby Goldfish, is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Gesneriaceae. It is native to Brazil, where it grows in the understory of the rainforest. The plant is named after its unique and distinct flowers that resemble a goldfish. Its vibrant orange and yellow flowers make it a popular choice for indoor or outdoor gardening.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Gesneriaceae |
| Genus | Nematanthus |
| Species | Gregarius |
Appearance
The Goldfish Plant has evergreen foliage that is glossy and dark green. The leaves are thick and waxy, and they grow up to 4 inches long. The flowers are small and tubular, and they grow in clusters that resemble goldfish. The flowers have a vibrant orange or yellow color, and they bloom throughout the year. The plant can grow up to 2 feet tall and 3 feet wide, making it a great choice for hanging baskets or as a ground cover.
Care Guide
The Goldfish Plant is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: The Goldfish Plant prefers well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The Goldfish Plant prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can burn the leaves.
- Hardiness Zones: The Goldfish Plant is hardy in USDA zones 10-12. In colder zones, it can be grown as a houseplant.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Goldfish Plant is generally pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and aphids. You can control these pests by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also develop root rot if it is overwatered or if the soil is poorly drained.
Habitat
The Goldfish Plant is native to Brazil, where it grows in the understory of the rainforest. It prefers a warm and humid environment with filtered sunlight. It can also be grown as a houseplant in colder climates.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Goldfish Plant?
A: Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot.
Q: Can I grow the Goldfish Plant outdoors?
A: Yes, the Goldfish Plant can be grown outdoors in USDA zones 10-12. It prefers a warm and humid environment with filtered sunlight.
Q: How tall does the Goldfish Plant grow?
A: The Goldfish Plant can grow up to 2 feet tall and 3 feet wide.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Goldfish Plant?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Nematanthus Wettsteinii
- Nematanthus Albus
- Nematanthus Gracilis
References
- “Goldfish Plant Care Guide: How to Grow Nematanthus Gregarius” by Summer Rayne Oakes, The Spruce
- “Nematanthus Gregarius” by Missouri Botanical Garden
- “Goldfish Plant” by The Old Farmer’s Almanac
