Nematanthus Gregarius
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.
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.
Flowers are pollinated by Hummingbirds......
but not here on the coast of Southern Spain of course.....
