Goldfish Plants (Columnea gloriosa) come to us from the Central and South American tropics and derive their common name from the unusual shape of their flowers, which with some imagination, resemble fish. Under ideal conditions, the goldfish hanging plant blooms prolifically in a variety of reds, oranges, and yellows. The leaves are generally 2 to 3 inches (5 to 7.5) long, thick, waxy, and dark green, although there are a few varieties with hairy leaves. The stems are vining and can reach 3 feet (91 cm.) long.
Place your Goldfish Plant in an area that receives very bright indirect light all day. Your plant will bloom heaviest in spring and summer and during that time it should receive a half dose of high phosphorus (10-30-10) liquid fertilizer every two weeks. Water your plant thoroughly spring through fall but allow the top 2 inches (5 cm.) to dry completely before watering again. In winter, cut watering back slightly.
