Tuesday, November 20, 2007

Goldfish plant - Columnea





Columnea gloriosa is the species usually found, originating from the jungles of Central America. It was named after the 16th century Italian botanist Fabius Columnea.

It is a difficult plant to grow well as it likes a good temperature, high humidity and a rest period in the winter. Needs a bright, but indirect light and a temperaure that never falls below 55F (13C). The leaves will scorch in direct sunlight.

Spray frequently with soft water and not in sunlight as this will cause scorching. Keep the soil moist but not water logged. Feed weekly. Reduce watering in the winter months. The leaves can be pruned back by about half after flowering.

2 comments:

Mary Claire said...

A nursery that was changing over to fall season plants gave me all their stressed plants rather than throwing them out. They had hardly any foliage and no blooms. I didn't even know what they were so I put them in the ground in my wooded backyard where they get morning and early afternoon sun. They are so happy and blooming profusely. I know that they are house plants but since they were free I plan on mulching them heavily and seeing what happens.

Hermes said...

Thank you. I've done the same many a time but it is not always successful. Still you have done everything you can and now it is up to Nature.