Nerve plants, or Fittonia spp., are well-known for their intricate vein patterns against their dark green colored leaves. They are evergreen perennials that can be used as groundcovers but are popular as houseplants.
These small plants grow from 3 to 6 inches and can have varying vein colors, from bright pink to silvery white, and leaves, from green to deep emerald.
Their compact size makes them ideal for living spaces, adding a touch of natural elegance to homes. However, Fittonias can be tricky to grow as houseplants. While it is a challenge, it is not impossible!
To care for nerve plants, one must understand their preferences. Fittoniais are primarily found in Peru but also in the different rainforests of South America. They are accustomed to these shaded, humid conditions beneath the dense forest canopy. They thrive in environments that mimic their native habitat.
Botanical Name: Fittonia
Common Name: Nerve Plant, mosaic plant, fittonia, painted net leaf
Family: Acanthaceae
Plant Type: Perennial
Hardiness Zones: 10-11 (USDA)
Sun Exposure: Low to Medium Light
Soil Type: Well-draining, Moist
Soil pH: Slightly Acidic to Neutral
Maturity: 6-12 inches in height
Height: 3-6 inches
Spacing: 6-12 inches apart
Bloom Time: Throughout the year
Flower Color: White, Pink, Red, Green (Insignificant)
Native Area: South America, Peru
Nerve Plant Care
Soil
These plants favor a well-draining soil that retains moisture without becoming waterlogged.
A peat moss base or a mix with added perlite works exceptionally well. Aim for a slightly acidic soil pH (6.5) for optimum growth. Regularly check the soil’s moisture levels to avoid drying out the plant. Paying attention to the soil quality provides a solid foundation for a happy and flourishing Fittonia.
Light
Nerve plants grow best in environments with filtered sunlight or indirect light, replicating the shades they receive in rainforests. Avoid exposing them to intense, direct sunlight, as this can burn their leaves. Consider placing your Fittoniain spaces with low to medium light, dappled sunlight, or under fluorescent lights indoors to protect the foliage. The right amount of light is critical to ensuring the health and vitality of your nerve plant.
Water
Fittonia will grow best in soil moistened by just the right amount of water. Although, it is still important to be careful with overwatering as it can lead to root rot and leaf discoloration (yellowing). For an evenly damped soil, allow the top layer to dry slightly between watering sessions. Consider the environmental conditions of your space; if it’s particularly dry, you may need to increase the watering frequency. Always use room-temperature water to avoid shocking the plant. When leaves turn yellow, it may be the result of too much water. Observing the plant’s response to watering cues, such as slight wilting, can guide you in maintaining the ideal moisture level for your Fittonia.
Temperature
Fittonia needs warm, consistent temperatures, such as those in the tropics. Keep your nerve plant at 60-80°F (15-27°C) and avoid temperature drops. Consider a temperature of 70°F, as it is the optimum for your Fittonias. Also, make sure that your nerve plant is away from windows to prevent drafts.
Humidity
This tropical plant demands a certain humidity level to survive. Place your nerve plant in a room with 50-80% humidity, such as bathrooms or terrariums. In dry and cold seasons, put your plant in a room with a humidifier. Placing a water tray nearby or regular misting can help create optimal humidity conditions for your nerve plant.
Fertilizer
During the growing season, typically during the spring and summer, fertilizer application every month or six weeks will aid and boost growth. Use a balanced 5-5-5 fertilizer diluted to half strength. A weekly application can also be followed using a week’s dose of the formulated fertilizer. Be careful to follow the fertilizer recommendation, as Fittonia is sensitive to overapplication. During fall and winter, avoid fertilizer application. Water the soil enough to dampen it before application so that the liquid fertilizer will reach all the roots quickly.
Pruning
Like any other plant, Fittonia benefits from occasional pruning to maintain a certain size and promote bushier growth. Trim back stems, preferably ones that are getting lengthy, with sharp scissors or pruning shears. Cut the stems above the leaf nodes, as this is where new stems will emerge. Removing damaged or diseased stems, leaves, and even flower buds allows the plant to redirect its energy towards new and healthier growth. Regular pruning enhances the aesthetic appeal of your nerve plant and contributes to its overall vitality. Remember to prune with care, ensuring a balanced and well-groomed appearance for your Fittonia.
Overwintering
In colder seasons, especially in regions with distinct weather changes, place your plant indoors to avoid injuries and consequences brought by low temperature and humidity to this tropical plant. Fittonia, like most plants, grows slowly during winter; therefore, plant maintenance will be less. Water will be needed in small amounts, and fertilizer is entirely avoided as it will damage the resting plant during the winter.
Types of Nerve Plants
Red (Fittonia verschaffeltii)
Among the favorites, the Red Nerve Plant, scientifically known as Fittonia verschaffeltii, features vibrant red veins against lush green leaves. The red color also spreads to its leaves. It is also known to grow yellow flowers!
White (Fittonia albivenis)
Fittonia albivenis, or the White Nerve Plant, has simple, delicate white veins on its vibrant green foliage.
Silver (Fittonia argyroneura)
One common variety is the Silver Nerve Plant or Fittonia argyroneura. Its silvery-white veins against dark green leaves provide a striking contrast.
Frankie (Fittonia verschaffeltii ‘Frankie’)
Fittonia verschaffeltii’ Frankie,’ known as the Frankie Nerve Plant, is one of the pink Fittonia varieties. It has pink leaves, but some retain some green color. It has slightly darker pink veins and green leaf margins.
Pink Angel (Fittonia albivenis ‘Pink Angel’)
The Pink Angel Nerve Plant, a variety of Fittonia albivenis, differs from the Frankie by having pink veins that contrast with its dark green leaves.
Pink Star (Fittonia verschaffeltii ‘Pink Star’)
The Pink Star Nerve Plant (Fittonia verschaffeltii) features captivating pink veins and green leaves. With its distinctive star-like patterns, this variety brings a playful and vibrant charm to your indoor garden.
Black Star (Fittonia verschaffeltii ‘Black Star’)
For an edgier aesthetic, consider the Black Star Nerve Plant, another variation of Fittonia verschaffeltii, with red to purple veins complimenting its dark emerald leaves that can look closer to the color black.
Red Star (Fittonia verschaffeltii ‘Red Star’)
The Red Star Nerve Plant has a fiery accent to the lineup. It showcases vibrant red veins against its lush green foliage, bringing a bold and energetic element to your indoor plant collection.
Fortissimo (Fittonia verschaffeltii ‘Fortissimo’)
The Fortissimo Nerve Plant adds a unique, colorful touch to indoor spaces. Its veins are pink and red, and its leaves are vibrant green.
Daisy (Fittonia albivenis ‘Daisy’)
The Daisy Nerve Plant has a special kind of leaf, with a bigger size and gray-green color. The veins and leaf margins are also a soft white in color.
How to Plant Nerve Plants from Seed
Prepare your materials
Prepare your high-quality seeds of the Fittonia of your choosing. Find a pot or container to place your soil or potting mix.
Planting the seeds
Place your seeds on the soil and lightly cover them with a thin layer. Be careful not to bury them deeply. Mist the soil or mix enough to moisten the seeds underneath.
Providing the Right Conditions
Ensuring the seeds get the right light, temperature, and humidity is essential for successful germination. Covering the container to lock in humidity will help, but remember to open the lid every now and then to promote air circulation. Place them in a well-but, indirectly-lit corner to encourage healthy growth. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and maintain a warm temperature of around 70°F (21°C).
Flowering and Aftercare
As your nerve plant matures, it may produce petite, charming blooms. Although the slow-growing plant rarely flowers when grown as an indoor houseplant, it does occasionally bloom with insignificant reddish or yellowish-white spikes. After flowering, continue providing consistent care, adjusting watering based on the plant’s needs. Regular pruning can also help maintain a bushy and compact shape.
Repotting
To keep nerve plants healthy:
- Repot them every spring or summer before new growth initiates.
- Use fresh potting soil or a peat moss mixture to help support water drainage.
- Use a container with drainage holes.
How to Propagate Nerve Plant
Choosing a healthy plant
The cuttings should be taken from a healthy parent plant to secure a disease-free, vigorous new plant. Avoid using nerve plants with shriveled leaves and those that are diseased and pest-stricken.
Cutting Propagation
Pick stem cuttings with at least two nodes or the points where leaves emerge. Using scissors or pruning shears, cut below the nodes. Remove leaves near the cut to make space for the new roots.
Rooting and Planting
Consider dipping the cut end into a rooting hormone like auxin to hasten root growth. Place the cutting in a well-draining potting mix, covering the base of the stem well with soil, then water gently.
Finding a Suitable Location
Once the cuttings have been rooted and produced new growth, transplant them in a bigger container to allow room for more growth.
Monitoring for Pests and Diseases
Like any plant, your propagated nerve plants are susceptible to pests and diseases, especially for a plant that requires high humidity. Regularly inspect the leaves for signs of trouble, especially the undersides, where pests like to hide.
Common Pests, Problems, and Diseases
Aphids
Aphids are little pests that often find their way to the tender leaves, causing them to distort and turn yellow. To combat these pests, a simple solution is to blast them off with a gentle stream of water. Introduce beneficial predators like ladybugs and hoverfly larvae. For a natural deterrent, a neem oil spray works wonders. Keep an eye out, especially during high humidity, so these invaders don’t take residence on your vibrant green companions.
Fungus Gnats
Fungus gnats are pesky insects that thrive in damp conditions, making the soil of your nerve plant an ideal party spot. Their larvae can damage the plant’s roots, leading to wilted and limp leaves. To evict these uninvited guests, let the soil surface dry out between watering, and consider using sticky traps. Applying a layer of pebbles on the soil surface can also deter adult gnats from laying eggs.
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are little critters that love to cozy up on the leaves and stems of your nerve plant, causing yellowing and leaf distortion. Fight back by dabbing them with a cotton swab soaked in rubbing alcohol or release natural predators like ladybugs. If the infestation persists, a neem oil solution will send these unwelcome guests packing. Remember to inspect your plant regularly, especially in warm temperatures, to catch and address mealybug invasions before they become a full-blown party.
Leaf Burn
A leaf burn is a physical injury caused when the plant gets too much direct sunlight, especially during the scorching midday sun. Shield your Fittonia from intense rays by placing it in shaded areas or using sheer curtains to filter the light. If your plant experiences fainting spells under the sun, relocate it to a spot with more indirect light. Your nerve plant will thank you with vibrant, burn-free leaves.
Root Rot
Root rot is first caused by waterlogged soil. Too much water deprives the root system of the oxygen it needs for respiration. This then leads to the decay of root tissues. These soggy roots are now susceptible to pathogens like fungi, leading to root rot. To prevent this disaster:
- Ensure your nerve plant is potted in well-draining soil with ample drainage holes.
- Allow the top inch of the soil to dry out between watering.
- If you suspect root rot has taken hold, consider repotting your Fittonia in fresh, well-aerated soil. Your plant roots will thank you for the room to breathe.
Addressing Common Pests and Disease Problems
Continually monitoring your nerve plants is a preventive measure to avoid pests and diseases. But if you spot any unwanted visitors, a mild soap solution can help keep them at bay. Insect problems can also be treated with insecticidal oil, like neem oil. Isolation is crucial to stop the spread of pests and diseases to neighboring plants. Also, watch for signs of overwatering—nerve plants prefer moist but not soggy soil.
These are just a few issues your nerve plant might encounter on its journey to green glory.
Stay vigilant, employ these practical solutions, and keep your Fittonia thriving and beautiful.
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