Introduction:
Fittonia. Commonly known as Nerve Plants because of the brightly coloured veined pattern on the leaf. They can be found with green, red, and pink leaves with various coloured veins, making them very attractive to the houseplant collector. As a native to the forest floors of South America these low growing plants do require indirect light and high humidity. This is not as tricky as it might sound, imitating the rainforest as much as possible will keep your Fittonia plant lush and healthy.
Secrets of success:
As mentioned, as a ground cover plant in tropical rainforests, Fittonia are shielded from direct sunlight above by the tree canopy and other smaller fauna. Therefore they will flourish in partial shade, and must be kept away from any direct sun as the delicate leaves will scorch and shrivel.
Fittonia are more than happy at a constant room temperature between 18-24c so are ideal in your home. If you are comfortable, your Fittonia will be as well. Avoid hot or cold draughts as both will harm the plant.
The key element to a happy plant is humidity. This can be best achieved by placing on a saucer filled with decorative stones that you add water to, but don`t allow the pot to sit in the water. This will increase the moisture in the air around the plant. Regular misting of the plant, once or twice a day during warmer spells, will also help to raise the humidity that they crave.
As with most tropical ground cover plants Fittonia are used to receiving a thorough watering followed by periods of dryness. However, as the forest floor is slow to dry out, as it isn`t exposed to direct sun and heat, it remains moist for longer periods. Therefore water your plant thoroughly, using tepid water, then allow the top of the soil to become just dry before watering again. If the plant becomes limp looking, without being excessively dry, then it`s a sign that the soil is waterlogged, and you will need to water less frequently.
Minimum Temp: 16c
Aftercare:
Repot in Spring when necessary, as small plants Fittonia do not need a large pot, as they don`t develop a large root system. Use regular houseplant compost.
Fertilise sparingly through Spring and Summer with a diluted half strength houseplant feed.
Warnings:
Not known to be toxic to pets or humans.
