Columnea (Goldfish Plant) Care Guide

Welcome to the Columnea Care Guide, where we provide expert advice on how to care for your Columnea plants.  Here at the Jungle, we grow dozens of varieties of gorgeous Columnea and just love them all!  Columnea, also known as Goldfish Plant, is a beautiful and unique plant that can bring a touch of tropical beauty to any space. With its vibrant flowers and trailing vines, Columnea is a popular choice among plant enthusiasts.

Lighting:

Columnea plants thrive in bright, indirect light. Place your plant near a window where it can receive bright, filtered light throughout the day. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, as this can cause the leaves to burn.

Watering:

Proper watering is essential for the health of your Columnea plant. Water your plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings, but do not let it completely dry out.

Humidity:

Columnea plants prefer high humidity levels. To increase humidity around your plant, you can place a tray of water near it or use a humidifier. Misting the leaves with water can also help to create a humid environment.

Temperature:

Columnea plants prefer temperatures between 65°F and 75°F (18°C and 24°C). Avoid exposing your plant to extreme temperatures or drafts, as this can cause stress and damage to the leaves.

Fertilizing:

Feed your Columnea plant with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). Follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging for the correct dosage.

Pruning:

To maintain the shape and appearance of your Columnea plant, you can prune it regularly. Remove any dead or yellowing leaves, as well as any leggy or overgrown stems. Pruning will help to promote new growth and keep your plant looking healthy and vibrant.

Pests:

Keep an eye out for common houseplant pests such as aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites. If you notice any signs of infestation, treat your plant with an appropriate insecticide or use natural remedies like insecticidal soap or our at home pest solution recipes.  You can find more detailed pest information on our Pest ID and Treatment pages.

Propagation:

If you want to expand your collection of Columnea plants, and we don't blame you, you can propagate them through stem cuttings. Take a healthy stem cutting with a few leaves and place it in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and provide bright, indirect light. Roots should start to develop within a few weeks.
You can also use perlite instead of water or soil, to root your Columnea.  Perlite will retain water and still allow the roots to breath.  It makes the transition in to soil much easier.

With proper care and attention, your Columnea plant will thrive and bring joy to your home or office. Enjoy the beauty of this tropical gem and watch it flourish under your care!