Flowering now in the garden......
The Goldfish Plant......
Originating from the tropical forests of Brazil, and belonging to the Gesneriad family, this lovely plant is just one of over 30 species of Nematanthus.
Included
in this large and diverse family are common favourites such as Episcia (Flame
Violet), Sinningia speciosa (Florist Gloxinia), Streptocarpus (Cape Primrose),
Achimenes (Cupid's Bower), Aeschynanthus (Lipstick Plant) and the best-known
member of all: Saintpaulia (African Violet).
When goldfish plants are young, the stems grow upright. As they age, they tend to trail which makes them a wonderful choice for hanging baskets.
When goldfish plants are young, the stems grow upright. As they age, they tend to trail which makes them a wonderful choice for hanging baskets.
The
tough, branching stems bear bright green, glossy leaves that are succulent and
waxy.
The
foliage, which is small and oval in shape, grows to about ¾ to 1 ½ inches long.
The plant produces orange, pitcher-like flowers on and off year round, but
mostly during the warmer seasons. If given proper care, older plants can flower
permanently for years. Really young plants may need to mature to about a year
old before they begin to bloom.
Goldfish plants have small root systems and are quite susceptible to rot so use a fast-draining, porous medium that will not stay soggy. Water regularly during the growing season and keep the medium evenly moist. Allow the plant to dry out slightly before watering again. If you forget to water this plant and the soil dries completely, you will discover that Nematanthus gregarius is quite tolerant of drought and can go for a surprisingly long period without water (the succulent leaves help). But don’t take the plant’s tolerant nature for granted.
Goldfish plants have small root systems and are quite susceptible to rot so use a fast-draining, porous medium that will not stay soggy. Water regularly during the growing season and keep the medium evenly moist. Allow the plant to dry out slightly before watering again. If you forget to water this plant and the soil dries completely, you will discover that Nematanthus gregarius is quite tolerant of drought and can go for a surprisingly long period without water (the succulent leaves help). But don’t take the plant’s tolerant nature for granted.
Flowers are pollinated by Hummingbirds......
but not here on the coast of Southern Spain of course.....
