Nerve Plant Plant Care
Fittonia albivenis (Veitch) Brummitt
Fittonia albivenis is a species of flowering plant in the family Acanthaceae, native to the rainforests of Colombia, Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador and northern Brazil. An evergreen perennial, it is notable for its dark green foliage with strongly contrasting white or red veins.
Every 7â10 days
Bright indirect light
65â80°F
50â70%
What Is the Nerve Plant?
Nerve Plant (Fittonia albivenis) belongs to the Acanthaceae family within the Fittonia genus. Nerve Plant is native to the rainforests of Colombia, Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador and northern Brazil. Nerve Plant is also known as Mosaic Plant, Silver-veined Fittonia.
Nerve Plant displays a low, creeping ground cover growth habit, reaching up to 0.5 inches tall with a spread of approximately 1 inches. Nerve Plant produces small, insignificant blooms.
Leaf size: approximately 2 inches.
How Often Should You Water a Nerve Plant?
Fittonia albivenis requires watering every 7â10 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.
Watering Frequency
Every 7â10 days
Let soil partially dry between waterings
What Light Does the Nerve Plant Need?
Nerve Plant thrives in bright indirect light light conditions. The optimal light range is 200â500 lux. Avoid placing Nerve Plant in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.
Light Requirement
Bright indirect light
200â500 lux
What Temperature and Humidity Does the Nerve Plant Prefer?
Fittonia albivenis grows best at temperatures between 65°F and 80°F. Nerve Plant prefers humidity levels of 50â70%. A pebble tray or humidifier helps maintain adequate moisture around the plant.
Temperature
65â80°F
Humidity
50â70%
What Soil Mix Works Best for a Nerve Plant?
Well-draining, peat-based potting mix with added perlite for aeration. Good drainage is essential for Nerve Plant to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.
How Do You Repot a Nerve Plant?
Repot annually in spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
How Do You Propagate a Nerve Plant?
Nerve Plant can be propagated through stem cuttings. Similar propagation techniques also apply to fittonia plant care, which shares the same genus.
Fertilizing
Every 4 months
During the growing season
Is the Nerve Plant Toxic to Pets and Children?
Non-Toxic
Non-toxic to humans and pets
What Pests and Diseases Affect the Nerve Plant?
Nerve Plant is susceptible to spider mites, aphids, mealybugs. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.
What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Nerve Plant Need?
Nerve Plant grows outdoors in USDA Zone 13b. Native to the rainforests of Colombia, Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador and northern Brazil, Nerve Plant is adapted to warm climates. In cooler regions, grow Nerve Plant as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 13b
Keep exploring plants
Nerve Plant is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.
It belongs to the Fittonia genus â compare its care with other Fittonia species on PlantoScan.
Nerve Plant thrives in bright light and direct sun â see other bright-light plants.
More Fittonia Species
Other Fittonia species in PlantoScan's care catalogue share similar watering, light, and soil preferences: