Goldfish Plant + Lipstick Plant Care
Goldfish plant (Columnea / Nematanthus) and lipstick plant (Aeschynanthus)
At a glance
| βοΈ Light | Bright indirect, with some gentle morning sun. |
|---|---|
| π§ Water | When the top 2β3 cm is dry. |
| πͺ΄ Soil | Light and airy: Tropical mix with extra perlite. |
| π‘οΈ Temp | 16β27Β°C. |
| π¨ Humidity | Average to high. |
| πΎ Pets | Pet safe Non-toxic to cats and dogs. |
| π± Care level | Easy Pet safe Flowering |
| π Grows to | Trails 30β90 cm. |
Goldfish plants and lipstick plants are cousins (both gesneriads, like African violets) with glossy trailing stems and bright flowers: little orange "goldfish" or red tubular "lipsticks" poking out of dark buds. They're pet safe and look great in hanging baskets.
Light + placement
Bright, indirect light with a little gentle morning sun is what makes them bloom. In lower light they stay healthy but rarely flower. Avoid hot afternoon sun.
Watering
Water when the top 2β3 cm of soil is dry. They don't like soggy soil or drying out completely. Use room-temperature water; cold water can mark the leaves.
Soil + repotting
A light, airy mix: our Tropical Potting Mix with extra perlite. They like to be snug; repot every 2 years.
Feeding + upkeep
Feeding: We feed with Kelpy, a gentle plant food made from BC kelp. Mix 1 teaspoon into 1 litre of water and use it every time you water; this is a hungry plant. Kelpy is gentle enough to use year-round. Our rule of thumb: if your plant is putting out new growth, even in winter, keep feeding. If it's resting, you'll be watering less, so it gets fed less too.
For a slow, natural boost, top-dress the pot with a thin layer of worm castings every few months, or mix some in when you repot. Prefer a granular food? BIOS Natural Plant Food mixes into the top layer of soil (about 1 tablespoon per 6-inch pot) once a month while your plant is growing. A little white fuzz on the soil afterwards is normal; it's the helpful fungi at work.
Trim long stems after flowering to keep them full; flowers form on new growth.
Propagation
Stem cuttings root easily in water or moist soil. See Propagation 101.
Common problems
| What you see | Likely cause | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| No flowers | Not enough light | Move to a brighter spot with gentle sun. |
| Leaves dropping | Cold drafts or overwatering | Keep warm; let the top dry first. |
| Long bare stems | Low light or no pruning | Trim back after flowering. |
| Brown spots on leaves | Cold water on leaves | Water the soil, not the leaves. |
| Wilting with wet soil | Root rot | Let it dry; repot in airy mix. |
Varieties we carry
Same care for our goldfish plants and lipstick plants, including 'Tropicana', Shady Lady and Mona Lisa. Only what's in stock online right now is shown.
Frequently asked questions
Are goldfish and lipstick plants safe for pets?
Yes. They're non-toxic to cats and dogs.
How do I get my lipstick plant to bloom?
Bright light, a snug pot, and a slightly cool, dry rest in winter.
Do they need a hanging basket?
Not necessarily, but their trailing stems look best hanging or on a high shelf.
Why is my goldfish plant dropping leaves?
Usually cold drafts or soggy soil.
Goldfish + Lipstick Plants care kit
- Tropical Potting Mix: Our all-round Soil Bar mix for leafy tropicals.
- Perlite: Lightens any mix so roots get more air.
- BIOS Natural Plant Food: Granular plant food you mix into the top of the soil.
- Kelpy Plant Growth Booster: Gentle BC kelp plant food you can use year-round.
- Worm Castings: A slow, natural boost from our Soil Bar. Top-dress every few months.
Bring your plant (or a photo) to 515 Chatham St #103 and we'll take a look. Open 11β5, 7 days a week, with street parking nearby. Get directions β
More plant care guides
Sundew Β· Venus Fly Trap Β· Alocasia Β· Tradescantia Β· Air Plants Β· Pink Princess Β· Monstera Adansonii Β· Anthurium Β· All plant care β