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Goldfish Plant

Columnea gloriosa

houseplant

verifiedReviewed by the GreenScout Team

A trailing houseplant with lush, dark green foliage and vibrant orange or red hooded flowers resembling goldfish. Native to tropical rainforests, it prefers humid conditions and bright, indirect light. Goldfish plants are prized for their exotic blooms and make stunning hanging basket specimens.

Common Problems

Select the problem your Goldfish Plant is experiencing to get a treatment guide.

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Wiltingchevron_right

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Underwateringchevron_right

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Brown Tipschevron_right

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Dropping Leaveschevron_right

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Pale Leaveschevron_right

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Slow Growthchevron_right

Care Guide

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Light

Bright, indirect light; avoid direct sun which can fade foliage. Needs 6+ hours of bright light daily to flower well

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Water

Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during growing season; reduce watering in winter. High humidity helps prevent drying

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Soil

Rich, well-draining potting mix with added peat moss or coco coir to retain some moisture while maintaining drainage

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Fertiliser

Feed every 2 weeks during growing season with diluted balanced or flowering fertilizer; stop feeding in winter

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Temperature

Prefers 65–75°F (18–24°C); avoid temperatures below 60°F (15°C) and cold drafts

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Humidity

Requires high humidity (60–80%); mist regularly or use a humidity tray to maintain moisture

Toxicity

check_circleSafe for Catscheck_circleSafe for Dogscheck_circleSafe for Children

Non-toxic to cats, dogs, and children; completely safe for households with pets

Common Diseases

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Common Pests

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Seasonal Care

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Resume regular watering and feeding as growth picks up.

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Peak growing season. Water and feed regularly.

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Reduce watering as growth slows. Stop heavy feeding.

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Minimal watering and feeding. Protect from frost if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why hasn't my Goldfish Plant produced its orange flowers?

Flowering needs bright indirect light for 6+ hours a day plus consistently high humidity. Insufficient light is the most common reason this trailing plant stays leafy without blooming.

Why are the leaves on my Goldfish Plant wilting even though the soil feels moist?

Check humidity first — this rainforest native can wilt from dry air even when soil moisture is adequate. Raise ambient humidity with a pebble tray or humidifier alongside your regular watering.