Blog article by Michelle Schlegel
Last Saturday, I was walking through a large greenhouse filled with unusual and rare plants. These greenhouse plants were protected from direct sun, extreme temperatures, and the environment was quite humid. Despite the lack of direct sunlight, the cacti and succulents were quite happy. The selections of ferns, Hoyas, Philodendrons, and Monsteras were impressive. Many were rare, and still, these mentioned were just a few of the available plants to see and purchase.
I almost got out of there with only 4 small plants in my cart that I had never seen before, and then in the back corner, on a rack, was a tiny orange flower, almost hidden under more unusual ferns. I got closer and gasped, audibly, and yes, I do embarrass myself often! The orange flower on this glossy-leafed plant was truly adorable. The label said it was a goldfish plant. In some ways, the flower is similar to a cute little goldfish.
The goldfish plant, Nematanthus gregarious, is native to Brazil. It is epiphytic, which means it grows attached to other plants, like a tree. Because of the way it grows, it does best here as a hanging plant. Soil requirements are light, porous,
and well-draining. Water well when dry and certainly mist occasionally in our dry climate. Since it naturally grows attached to a larger shrub or tree, it prefers brighter, dappled sun only, not direct. I will keep this tender Nematanthus in the house for winter and then move it under a shade tree for summer.
It’s amazing to me that a great variety of beautiful plants is available for us to have in our homes. Plan a trip to find some unusual plants for yourself!
