Columnea ‘Krakatau’ (Goldfish Plant)

Botanical & Common Names
- Botanical name: Columnea ‘Krakatau’
- Common names: Goldfish Plant

Background & Origin
Columnea 'Krakatua', commonly known as the Goldfish Plant, is part of a genus comprising over 200 species, most of which are native to the tropical regions of the Americas, including Guatemala, Mexico, and Costa Rica. The cultivar ‘Krakatua’ features long, slender stems and trailing foliage, making it ideal for hanging baskets or cascading displays. The plant was first formally described in 1753 by Carl Linnaeus, and its name honours Italian botanist Fabio Colonna. In winter and spring, it produces striking red flowers that resemble tiny goldfish, adding a whimsical and vibrant touch to any indoor space.

Care Level
- Care level: Moderate
- Suitable for beginners: If you follow the care instructions!

What It Loves
- Bright indirect sunlight with some direct morning sun
- A consistent watering routine
- Some humidity

What It Dislikes
- Overwatering or sitting in soggy soil
- Dry air
- Prolonged direct sunlight, which can scorch leaves

Best Rooms for This Plant
- Living rooms
- Bathroom
- Kitchens
- Bedrooms

Growth Potential
- Typical height indoors: Up 30-60 cm tall with time
- Typical spread: Up to 45-90 cm wide
- Growth rate: Fast during spring and summer
- Pruning required: Occasional, to manage size or old foliage

Is This Plant Right for You?
- This plant is a great choice if you:
- If you want Instant impact: Trailing stems and movement.
- Have a bare shelf or hanging room
- Low maintenance flowering plant

Light
- Best light: Bright indirect light with some morning direct sun
- Avoid: Strong, direct sunlight, to little light will result in little to no flowers

Watering
- Frequency: Water when the top 2 inches of soil feels dry, using room temperature water.
- Seasonal note: Reduce watering in winter when growth slows. Always allow excess water to drain away to prevent root rot.

Humidity
- Prefers: medium to high humidity
- Extra humidity helpful?: Yes, misting or placing near other plants can support healthy leaf growth.

Feeding
- Feed with: A balanced houseplant fertiliser
- Frequency: Once or twice a month during spring and summer. No feeding is needed during autumn and winter.

Toxicity
- Pet safe: Yes
- Notes: Keep out of reach of pets and small children to avoid damage to leaves.

Repotting
- How often: Once a year
- Signs it’s needed: Roots growing out of the drainage holes, slower growth, or soil drying very quickly. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one to avoid overwatering.