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Description
Nematanthus Wettsteinii, also known as Goldfish Plant, is a species of flowering plant in the family Gesneriaceae. It is native to Brazil and is a popular houseplant due to its attractive foliage and unique flowers. The plant grows up to 12 inches tall and 24 inches wide, making it perfect for small spaces. The leaves are dark green and glossy, while the flowers are orange and shaped like goldfish.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Gesneriaceae |
| Genus | Nematanthus |
Appearance
The Goldfish Plant has dark green, glossy leaves that are 2-4 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. The leaves are oval-shaped with slightly wavy edges. The plant produces orange flowers that are shaped like goldfish and have dark spots. The flowers bloom from spring to fall and can last for several weeks. The plant is compact and bushy, growing up to 12 inches tall and 24 inches wide.
Care Guide
Water: The Goldfish Plant prefers moist soil but should not be overwatered. Water the plant thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch.
Fertilization: The plant should be fertilized once a month during the growing season (spring to fall) with a balanced fertilizer.
Soil: The Goldfish Plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight. It can tolerate some direct sunlight but should not be exposed to intense midday sun.
Hardiness Zones: The Goldfish Plant is hardy in USDA zones 10-12, but can be grown indoors in colder regions.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Goldfish Plant is susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and aphids. It can also be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. To prevent pests and diseases, keep the plant in a well-ventilated area and avoid overwatering. If pests or diseases do occur, treat them with an appropriate pesticide or fungicide.
Habitat
The Goldfish Plant is native to the Atlantic forest region of Brazil, where it grows as an epiphyte on trees and rocks. It prefers warm, humid environments and can be found growing in shaded areas of the forest.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Goldfish Plant?
A: Water the plant thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch.
Q: What kind of soil does the Goldfish Plant prefer?
A: The Goldfish Plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Goldfish Plant?
A: The plant should be fertilized once a month during the growing season (spring to fall) with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect the Goldfish Plant?
A: The Goldfish Plant is susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, aphids, powdery mildew, and leaf spot.
Related Plants
- Nematanthus Gracilis
- Nematanthus Albus
- Nematanthus Glabra
- Nematanthus Monospermus
References
- “Nematanthus Wettsteinii (Goldfish Plant).” Gardenia. Accessed September 14, 2021. https://www.gardenia.net/plant/nematanthus-wettsteinii-goldfish-plant.
- “Nematanthus Wettsteinii.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 14, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=262146.
- “Nematanthus Wettsteinii.” Plant Care Today. Accessed September 14, 2021. https://plantcaretoday.com/nematanthus-wettsteinii.html.
