Columnea — 19 species

Columnea, commonly called the goldfish plant, is a genus of trailing epiphytic herbs and shrubs native to tropical America, prized indoors for their vivid tubular flowers — orange, red, or yellow — that resemble leaping fish. They thrive in bright, indirect light and need watering only when the top inch of soil dries out, as their epiphytic roots are highly rot-prone. High humidity of at least 50% is essential. According to the ASPCA, goldfish plants are non-toxic to both cats and dogs, making them a safe choice for pet-friendly homes.