A charming trailing houseplant with glossy green leaves flushed with warm coppery tones, ×Codonatanthus ‘Sunset’ brings colour and movement to shelves, hanging pots, and terrariums. As the name suggests, the foliage often takes on sunset-like hues of bronze, orange, and deep green, particularly in bright light. Mature plants may also produce small tubular flowers, usually pale with delicate markings, adding an extra touch of interest.
This hybrid plant is part of the Gesneriad family, the same group as African violets and lipstick plants, meaning it enjoys warm temperatures, gentle light, and slightly humid conditions. With its trailing growth and relatively compact leaves, it makes a beautiful choice for terrariums, hanging planters, or trailing from a shelf.
Scientific Name
×Codonatanthus ‘Sunset’ (hybrid Codonanthe–Nematanthus plant)
This plant is an intergeneric hybrid between the genera Codonanthe and Nematanthus, both members of the Gesneriad family. The hybrid name is written with the multiplication symbol (×) to indicate its mixed parentage.
Common Name
Sunset Codonatanthus
Origin
A cultivated hybrid derived from tropical South American rainforest species, particularly from Brazil.
Light
Prefers bright, indirect light. A spot near a window with filtered light is ideal. It can tolerate slightly lower light levels, though the warm sunset tones of the foliage may become less pronounced.
Water
Allow the top couple of centimetres of soil to dry out between waterings. Water thoroughly, letting excess drain away. Reduce watering slightly in winter when growth slows.
Humidity
Enjoys moderate to high humidity. It grows particularly well in terrariums or kitchens and bathrooms where the air is naturally more humid. A pebble tray can also help maintain comfortable humidity levels.
Soil
Use a light, well-draining houseplant mix. A blend containing coco coir, bark, and perlite works well, allowing moisture retention while preventing waterlogging.
Food
Feed every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with a balanced liquid houseplant fertiliser. Pause feeding in winter.
Temperature
Prefers temperatures between 18–26°C. Avoid cold drafts and temperatures below 12°C.
Pet-safe
Not known to be toxic, but it’s best to keep houseplants out of reach of curious pets.
Sprouts Top Tips
Pinch back the trailing stems occasionally to encourage fuller, bushier growth and keep the plant looking lush.
Did You Know?
The parent genera of this hybrid – Codonanthe and Nematanthus – naturally grow as epiphytes in rainforest trees, where they trail from branches and absorb moisture from humid air.
