Genus guide
Nematanthus — 19 species
Part of the African violets & gesneriads family (Gesneriaceae)
Nematanthus is a genus of tropical trailing plants from Brazil, celebrated for their waxy, pouch-shaped flowers that mimic tiny goldfish — earning common names like Goldfish Plant, candy corn plant, and trailing clog plant. They thrive in bright indirect light with four to six hours of filtered sun daily; direct rays bleach and burn the glossy foliage. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, roughly every seven to ten days, and ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot. All species are non-toxic to cats and dogs, confirmed by the ASPCA.
All Nematanthus species we cover
- Black Gold clog plant
- Black Gold Goldfish Plant
- candy corn plant
- Candy Corn Plant
- Common Goldfish Plant
- Fritsch's Goldfish Plant
- Fritschs Pouch Flower
- Goldfish Plant
- Large-perianth Goldfish Plant
- Long-stalk Goldfish Plant
- Nematanthus 'Cheerio'
- Nematanthus 'Freckles'
- Nematanthus 'Tropicana'
- Nematanthus wettsteinii
- river clog plant
- Spotted Goldfish Plant
- Striped Goldfish Plant
- Thick-leaf Goldfish Plant
- trailing clog plant
Nematanthus — frequently asked questions
Are Nematanthus plants toxic to cats and dogs?
Most Nematanthus are pet-safe. Of the 19 Nematanthus species we cover, 19 are non-toxic on the ASPCA list and 0 carry a toxic or mildly-toxic rating. Even so, confirm the individual species before trusting it around pets.
How much light do Nematanthus plants need?
Most Nematanthus do best in bright indirect light. If yours stretches toward the window or loses its variegation it wants more light; scorched or bleached leaves mean it is getting too much direct sun.
Are Nematanthus easy to care for?
Nematanthus are moderate to grow: the main requirement is a genuinely bright spot out of harsh midday sun. Get the light right and the rest of their care follows.
How many Nematanthus varieties are there?
Growli's care library covers 19 Nematanthus species and varieties — browse them all above. They share a similar light, water and soil pattern, so once you learn one Nematanthus, the rest follow closely.
Comparing apps rather than plants? PictureThis alternatives — 7 plant ID apps compared.