If you love houseplants that offer more than just green foliage, the charming Goldfish Plant (Columnea spp.) and its vibrant relatives deserve a spot in your home. Named for their quirky, orange, fish-shaped flowers, these tropical beauties are prized for their trailing stems and lush leaves. Perfect for hanging baskets, shelves, or sunny windowsills, Goldfish Plants thrive indoors and reward growers with bold blooms throughout the year. Let’s explore seven delightful varieties that will brighten up your indoor space with both color and character!
1. Columnea gloriosa (Common Goldfish Plant)
Columnea gloriosa is the classic, most recognizable type of Goldfish Plant, adored for its cascading vines of thick, glossy green leaves. The real highlight, however, is its brilliant orange, tubular flowers that closely resemble tiny swimming goldfish. This variety is an ideal hanging plant, as its trailing habit allows blooms to dangle gracefully. It thrives in bright, indirect light with moderate watering, and regular misting keeps humidity levels ideal. Columnea gloriosa blooms generously in spring and summer, adding tropical flair to any room.
2. Columnea hirta
Known for its velvety, dark green foliage and eye-catching orange-red blooms, Columnea hirta is a striking Goldfish Plant variety that brings texture and vibrancy to indoor plant collections. Its fuzzy leaves give it a unique touch, while the fish-shaped flowers appear in clusters at the ends of arching stems. This plant loves humidity and prefers bright, filtered sunlight. Its compact growth habit makes it a wonderful choice for small spaces, shelves, or decorative pots. Columnea hirta blooms most abundantly in warmer months, offering a playful pop of color indoors.
3. Columnea microphylla
For those who favor a delicate, fine-leaved variety, Columnea microphylla is a charming option. Its small, rounded leaves grow densely along slender, trailing stems, creating a lush, cascading display. The vivid, orange flowers emerge in clusters, standing out beautifully against the tiny green foliage. This species is particularly well-suited for hanging baskets or high shelves where its trailing stems can shine. Columnea microphylla prefers warm, humid conditions and bright, indirect light, rewarding attentive growers with nearly continuous blooms under the right care.
4. Nematanthus gregarius (Syn. Hypocyrta)
Often grouped with Goldfish Plants, Nematanthus gregarius boasts plump, oval-shaped leaves and bright, orange, fish-like flowers. This easygoing plant is a fantastic indoor option for beginners thanks to its forgiving nature and cheerful blooms. Unlike many trailing plants, Nematanthus has a bushier growth habit, making it perfect for tabletops or hanging displays. It thrives in bright, indirect light with occasional watering, and it benefits from regular misting to mimic its tropical roots. Its compact, lush foliage and vibrant flowers create a lively indoor accent.
5. Columnea schiedeana
Columnea schiedeana offers an exotic twist with its thick, dark green, slightly fuzzy leaves and distinctive, tubular flowers that range from deep orange to scarlet red. This variety produces blooms along its trailing stems, creating a cascade of color when in full flower. It prefers warm, humid conditions and consistent moisture without waterlogging. Columnea schiedeana’s unusual foliage texture combined with its bold flowers makes it a standout piece in any indoor plant collection, especially when placed in hanging baskets or macramé planters.
6. Columnea ‘Firebird’
The Columnea ‘Firebird’ is a popular hybrid prized for its dense, cascading growth and clusters of fiery orange to red flowers. Its lush, medium-green leaves contrast perfectly with its vivid blooms, creating a bright, tropical display indoors. ‘Firebird’ thrives in bright, indirect sunlight and high humidity, blooming generously when given a warm environment. This cultivar is often used in hanging baskets, where its flowers can spill elegantly over the sides. Regular pruning encourages fuller growth and a more impressive display of blooms.
7. Nematanthus ‘Black Gold’
A striking and dramatic option, Nematanthus ‘Black Gold’ features glossy, almost black-green leaves that create a stunning backdrop for its bright orange, goldfish-shaped flowers. The unique contrast between dark foliage and vivid blooms makes this plant a captivating addition to modern interiors. It thrives in bright, indirect light and prefers to dry out slightly between waterings. The ‘Black Gold’ variety is a wonderful conversation starter and pairs beautifully with lighter-leaved plants for dramatic contrast in hanging planters or mixed arrangements.
Final Thoughts:
Goldfish Plants are a playful, colorful way to liven up your indoor spaces. With their quirky, fish-like flowers and lush trailing habits, they’re perfect for plant lovers seeking something out of the ordinary. Whether you choose a classic Columnea gloriosa or the dramatic Nematanthus ‘Black Gold,’ these vibrant beauties promise to bring a splash of tropical charm and personality into your home.
