Columnea gloriosa ‘California Gold’ (Goldfish Plant)
Read More About Columnea gloriosa ‘California Gold’ (Goldfish Plant)
Columnea gloriosa 'California Gold'
Goldfish Plant 'California Gold' is a vibrant tropical houseplant celebrated for its brilliant red-orange blooms that resemble tiny leaping goldfish. The colorful flowers emerge among glossy green trailing foliage, creating a cheerful display that brings warmth and tropical charm to any indoor space. Its cascading habit makes it ideal for hanging baskets, shelves, and elevated planters where you can admire both the foliage and blooms.
Native to tropical rainforests, 'California Gold' thrives in warm, humid conditions and rewards attentive care with abundant blooms throughout the growing season. A slightly drier rest period during winter helps encourage an even more spectacular floral display when spring arrives.
Height: 6–12 inches
Spread: 12–24 inches (trailing with age)
Habit: Trailing, Cascading
Exposure: Bright Indirect Light
Plant Type: Tropical Houseplant
Why You'll Love It:
- Goldfish-Shaped Blooms: Bright red-orange flowers resemble tiny swimming goldfish.
- Long Blooming: Produces abundant flowers throughout spring and summer with proper care.
- Perfect Hanging Plant: Cascading stems are ideal for hanging baskets, shelves, and elevated planters.
- Lush Evergreen Foliage: Glossy green leaves stay attractive year-round.
- Tropical Beauty: Brings vibrant color and rainforest charm to any indoor plant collection.
Whether displayed in a hanging basket or showcased on a bright shelf, Goldfish Plant 'California Gold' adds cheerful blooms, lush foliage, and effortless tropical elegance to your home.
Goldfish Plant 'California Gold' Basic Care: Easy
Watering: Keep the soil lightly moist during spring and summer, watering when the top 1–2 inches begin to dry. In winter, let the soil dry slightly more between waterings to encourage better flowering the following season. Never let the plant remain soggy.
Light: Provide bright, indirect light. Bright filtered light promotes vigorous growth and abundant blooms while protecting the foliage from scorching.
Soil/Drainage: Use a loose, well-draining tropical potting mix. An African violet mix or a blend containing perlite and orchid bark provides excellent drainage and airflow.
Temperature/Humidity: Thrives in temperatures between 60–80°F with moderate to high humidity. Higher humidity encourages healthier foliage and more prolific blooming. A humidifier or pebble tray can be beneficial in dry homes.
Feeding: Feed every 2–4 weeks during spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Reduce feeding during fall and winter.
Repotting: Repot every 2–3 years or when rootbound. Like many flowering tropicals, Goldfish Plants often bloom best when kept slightly pot-bound.
General Tips: Prune lightly after flowering to encourage branching and keep the plant fuller. Avoid relocating the plant while flower buds are developing, as environmental changes may cause bud drop. A slightly drier winter rest, combined with bright light and consistent humidity, helps produce an abundance of colorful blooms each year.
Order & Shipping Info:
-Plants ship in a grower's pot, fully rooted.
-We ship every Monday and Tuesday (excluding holidays) to avoid weekend delays.
-Our photos show what you can expect, but each plant is unique and may look slightly different upon arrival.
-Minor damage during shipping is entirely normal and should be expected, especially in extreme summer or winter temperatures. Don’t worry—damaged foliage can be trimmed away and will not affect the plant's root system or overall health.
-Hold off on watering if the soil is still moist, and wait 2-4 weeks before repotting or fertilizing. This patience will help your plant adjust smoothly without going into shock.
Important:
- Report any order issues the day they arrive by emailing info@magicvalleygardens.com with a photo. After 24 hours, no refunds, returns, or exchanges—no exceptions.
- We guarantee plants arrive alive, but can’t promise long-term success given the nature of plants.
- Refunds are handled on a case-by-case basis. Many plants recover with proper care, so refunds may not be needed.