Description
- Common names:
- Nerve Plant, White Nerve Plant, Mosaic Plant, Painted Net Leaf, Silver Net Plant, Planta mosaico, Planta de nervios
- Botanical name:
- Fittonia albivenis, Fittonia verschaffeltii
- Description:
- A spreading evergreen perennial featuring delicately veined, deep-green leaves with striking silvery-white patterns. This compact beauty produces small white flowers and thrives indoors.
Features
- Rarity:
- Common Household Favorite
- Pet & Babies safety:
- Non-Toxic & Pet-Friendly
- Air Purifier:
- Moderate Air Purifier (6/10)
- Form factor:
- Trailing Vine, Variegated Leaves, Compact Bush, Architectural
- Origin:
- Peru
- Aesthetic advantages:
- Terrarium, Bathroom, Living Room, Bookshelf, Hanging Basket, Modern, Bohemian, Scandinavian
Care Guide
Care level:
Intermediate+
Requires consistent attention to watering and humidity needs, but rewards you with stunning foliage. It can be dramatic when thirsty (leaves droop) but bounces back quickly with proper care.
Light:
Medium / Indirect Light+
Thrives in medium to bright indirect light, such as near an east or north-facing window. Avoid direct sunlight which can scorch the delicate leaves and cause colors to fade.
Water:
Keep Soil Moist+
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water when the top half-inch of soil feels slightly dry. Fittonia is dramatic and will wilt when thirsty, but overwatering can lead to root rot.
Humidity:
Prefers High Humidity+
Thrives in humidity levels above 60%, making it perfect for terrariums or bathrooms. Mist regularly, place on a pebble tray with water, or use a humidifier to prevent brown, crispy leaf edges.
Temperature:
Prefers Warmth+
Prefers warm temperatures between 18-27°C (65-80°F) and does not tolerate cold well. Keep away from drafts, air conditioning vents, and temperatures below 15°C (60°F).
Hardiness zones:
Indoor Only+
This tropical plant is suitable for Indoor Only cultivation and cannot tolerate frost. It can be placed outdoors in a shaded, protected spot during warm summer months in all zones, but must be brought inside before temperatures drop.
Fertilizing:
Feed Monthly+
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength once a month during the growing season (spring through summer). Reduce or stop feeding during fall and winter when growth slows.
Repotting:
Repot Every 2-3 Years+
Repot every 2-3 years or when roots begin growing out of drainage holes. Use a well-draining potting mix with peat moss, and choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one.
Cleaning:
Wipe Leaves Regularly+
Gently wipe leaves with a soft, damp cloth every few weeks to remove dust and allow the intricate vein patterns to shine. Clean leaves also help the plant photosynthesize more efficiently.
Propagation:
Easy to Propagate+
Easily propagated by taking stem cuttings with at least two nodes and placing them in moist soil or water. Roots typically develop within 2-3 weeks in a warm, humid environment.