Water
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top 2-3 cm of soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering slightly during winter months when growth slows.
Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure good drainage.
Also known as Dancing Dolphin · Goldfish Plant · Hairy Columnea
Columnea hirta is a trailing houseplant admired for its fuzzy leaves and vibrant, often red, tubular flowers that bloom in cascades.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, Indirect Light
75% intensity
Prefers bright light but avoid direct sun, which can scorch leaves.
Consistent Moisture
50% intensity
Keep soil evenly moist, allowing the top layer to dry slightly between waterings.
Well-draining, peat-based potting mix
50% intensity
Average Room Temperature
50% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-24°C. Avoid cold drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations.
Indoor
50% intensity
Regular Feeding During Growth
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength during spring and summer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top 2-3 cm of soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering slightly during winter months when growth slows.
Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure good drainage.
Prune to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Trim back leggy stems after flowering to promote new shoots. Remove any dead or faded flowers and foliage promptly to keep the plant looking tidy and healthy.
Can be pruned hard if needed.
Propagate from stem cuttings, typically 10-15 cm long. Take cuttings in spring or early summer. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and insert into a moist potting mix.
Keep warm and humid until roots form, usually within 4-6 weeks.
Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a peat-based blend with perlite. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one.
Repot in spring before active growth begins.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Columnea Hirta (Columnea hirta)
Where Columnea Hirta (Columnea hirta) is found

Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Gesneriaceae |
| Genus | Columnea |
| Species | Columnea hirta |
Similar in genus Columnea
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data