Nematanthus | Gesneriaceae

Introduction to Nematanthus and Gesneriaceae

Nematanthus is a genus of flowering plants in the family Gesneriaceae, with approximately 30 species found in the montane forests of southeastern Brazil. Most Nematanthus species have a trailing or creeping habit, making them ideal for hanging baskets or ground cover. One popular species is Nematanthus gregarius, also known as the clog plant or goldfish plant, native to Brazil and characterized by its bright orange, tubular flowers resembling goldfish.

Nematanthus has small leaves and flowers compared to other gesneriads. The leaves are dark green and pointed, while the flowers range in color from orange to red. These plants are relatively easy to care for, requiring bright, indirect light, well-draining soil, and consistent moisture without waterlogging. Fertilize every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. A popular hybrid variety is Nematanthus 'Tropicana', a cross between N. perianthomega and N. gregarious, with dark green leaves and a pointed shape.

In recent years, five new Nematanthus species have been described, adding to the diversity and beauty of this fascinating genus. Overall, Nematanthus is a great choice for those seeking an easy-to-care-for trailing plant with unique and colorful flowers.

Characteristics of Nematanthus

Nematanthus is a genus of flowering plants in the family Gesneriaceae, endemic to Brazil. These plants have unique flowers resembling small goldfish, which is why they are commonly known as goldfish plants or clog plants. Most Nematanthus species have a trailing or creeping habit, making them perfect for hanging baskets or ground covers. They have dark green, glossy leaves that come to a point and are often covered in fine hairs, giving them a velvety texture.

One popular species is Nematanthus gregarius, with bright orange flowers that bloom year-round. The flowers are tubular with flared ends, resembling goldfish. This plant can grow up to 12 inches tall and 18 inches wide. Another popular cultivar is Nematanthus 'Tropicana', a hybrid with dark green leaves and yellow veins, and orange flowers. It grows up to 6 inches tall and 12 inches wide. A new species, Nematanthus exsertus, from Bahia, Brazil, is distinguished by its elongated flowers.

Nematanthus plants prefer bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. They are sensitive to overwatering, so it's important to let the soil dry out between waterings. Fertilize once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Overall, Nematanthus is a unique and beautiful genus of plants, perfect for adding a pop of color to indoor or outdoor spaces.

Growing and Caring for Nematanthus

Nematanthus is a genus of flowering plants in the family Gesneriaceae, with approximately 30 species found in the montane forests of southeastern Brazil. These plants have unique tubular flowers with a flared, five-lobed mouth, coming in various colors like yellow, orange, red, and purple.

Most Nematanthus species have a trailing or creeping habit, making them ideal for hanging baskets or ground covers. They prefer bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. Propagation is relatively easy through stem cuttings.

One popular species is Nematanthus gregarius, also known as the clog plant or goldfish plant. It has small, dark green leaves and bright orange, tubular flowers resembling goldfish. Native to Brazil, it is commonly grown as a houseplant worldwide.

Another popular cultivar is Nematanthus 'Tropicana', a hybrid between N. perianthomega and N. gregarious. It has dark green leaves with yellow veins and orange flowers.

Nematanthus exsertus is a new species from Bahia, Brazil, easily distinguished by its elongated flowers.

Nematanthus plants prefer bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. Avoid overwatering and let the soil dry out slightly between waterings. Fertilize once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Overall, Nematanthus is a unique and beautiful genus of Gesneriaceae, perfect for houseplants and hanging baskets.

Propagation of Nematanthus

Nematanthus is a genus of flowering plants in the family Gesneriaceae, with approximately 30 species found in the montane forests of southeastern Brazil. Most Nematanthus species have a trailing or creeping habit, making them perfect for hanging baskets or ground covers. They are also known as "Goldfish plants" due to their unique flowers resembling goldfish.

Nematanthus leaves are dark green, pointed, and about 1 inch wide. Compared to other gesneriads, Nematanthus has unique tubular flowers with a flared, five-lobed mouth. The flowers come in various colors, including orange, red, yellow, and pink.

One popular species is Nematanthus gregarius, also known as the clog plant or goldfish plant. It is native to Brazil and is a popular houseplant due to its unique flowers and easy care requirements.

Nematanthus 'Tropicana' is a hybrid between N. perianthomega and N. gregarious. It has dark green leaves and unique goldfish-like flowers.

Nematanthus plants prefer bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. Avoid overwatering and let the soil dry out slightly between waterings. Fertilize once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Overall, Nematanthus is a unique and beautiful genus of plants in the Gesneriaceae family, perfect for adding a pop of color to any indoor or outdoor space.

Common Varieties of Nematanthus

Nematanthus is a genus of flowering plants in the family Gesneriaceae, with approximately 30 species found in the montane forests of southeastern Brazil. All species are endemic to Brazil. Nematanthus has unique tubular flowers with a flared, goldfish-like mouth, which is why one species is commonly called the goldfish plant.

Most Nematanthus species have a trailing or creeping habit, making them ideal for hanging baskets or ground covers. They have dark green leaves about 1 inch wide and pointed. One popular cultivar is Nematanthus 'Tropicana', a cross between N. perianthomega and N. gregarious, with striking dark green leaves.

Nematanthus gregarius, also known as the clog plant or goldfish plant, is a species native to Brazil. It has bright orange flowers that bloom year-round and is a popular houseplant due to its low maintenance requirements.

Nematanthus exsertus is a new species from Bahia, Brazil, easily distinguished by its elongated corolla tube and exserted stamens. It is a relatively rare species and not commonly cultivated.

Overall, Nematanthus is a unique and beautiful genus of plants that are easy to care for and make great additions to any indoor or outdoor garden. They add a touch of exoticism to any collection.

Nematanthus and Gesneriaceae in Home Decor

Nematanthus is a genus of flowering plants in the family Gesneriaceae, with approximately 30 species found in the montane forests of southeastern Brazil. Most Nematanthus species have a trailing or creeping habit, making them perfect for hanging baskets or ground covers. The leaves are typically dark green and glossy, with some species having variegated patterns.

One popular species is Nematanthus gregarius, also known as the clog plant or goldfish plant. It is a trailing plant with small, waxy, bright orange flowers resembling goldfish. This species is native to the coastal mountains of Brazil and is a favorite among collectors for its unique appearance.

Nematanthus 'Tropicana' is another popular cultivar, a cross between N. perianthomega and N. gregarious. It has dark green leaves that come to a point and produces small, bright orange flowers.

Compared to other gesneriads, Nematanthus has a relatively simple flower structure with five petals and a tubular shape. The flowers are typically small, but they come in a range of colors, including orange, yellow, red, and white.

Nematanthus plants prefer bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. They are sensitive to overwatering, so it's important to let the soil dry out slightly between waterings. These plants are relatively easy to care for and make great additions to any indoor or outdoor garden.

Conclusion

Nematanthus is a genus of flowering plants in the family Gesneriaceae, with approximately 30 species found in the montane forests of southeastern Brazil. Most Nematanthus species have a trailing or creeping habit and produce small, tubular flowers in various colors. The genus name is derived from the Greek words "nema" meaning thread and "anthos" meaning flower, referring to the slender flowers produced by these plants.

Compared to other gesneriads, Nematanthus has a relatively simple flower structure with five petals and five stamens. The flowers are typically pollinated by hummingbirds or insects. One popular species is Nematanthus gregarius, commonly known as the clog plant or goldfish plant, with bright orange, tubular flowers resembling goldfish. This species is native to Brazil and is often grown as a houseplant in cooler climates.

Nematanthus 'Tropicana' is a popular hybrid cultivar, a cross between N. perianthomega and N. gregarious. It has dark green leaves that come to a point and produces bright orange flowers. This cultivar is often grown as a hanging plant and is relatively easy to care for.

Overall, Nematanthus is a beautiful and diverse genus of plants that are well-suited for indoor cultivation. They are relatively easy to care for and can add a splash of color to any room. If you are looking for a unique and interesting plant to add to your collection, consider adding a Nematanthus to your home.