Plant Care Guides / Indoor / Moderate Care
The nerve plant is tiny but stunning. Its small, oval leaves are covered in a network of brightly coloured veins, white, pink or red, that give the plant its name and its visual punch. It stays low and compact, making it ideal for terrariums, small pots, desk displays and bottle gardens. The care is straightforward once you understand that it is a drama queen about water.
Fittonias are famous for fainting. When they dry out even slightly, the whole plant goes flat and limp, looking utterly dead. A good watering brings it back to life within hours, usually completely fine. It is alarming the first time, but you get used to it. Think of it as the plant's way of telling you exactly when it needs a drink.
Low to bright, indirect light. It does well in lower light than most colourful plants, which is why it is so popular in terrariums and shady spots. The coloured veins show best in brighter light, but avoid direct sun, which scorches the delicate leaves.
Keep the soil consistently moist. Do not let it dry out, or you will get the dramatic fainting act. Water little and often, and make sure it drains. It loves humidity and thrives in a terrarium, a bathroom or grouped with other plants. In a dry room, mist it regularly.
Feed monthly through spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertiliser at half strength.
It has a shallow root system, so a small, shallow pot suits it. Repot annually if it outgrows its container. Use a rich, moisture-retaining mix with good drainage.
Ask about availability. We keep a changing range of indoor plants. WhatsApp us to see what is in store, or pop in and we will help you choose.
