Nerve Plant
Varieties
Fittonia 'Purple Snow Anne'
Origin
Native to the tropical rainforests of South America (Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, Colombia and Brazil)
Low-light tolerant
Toxic to pets/people
General Care
Light
Bright to moderate, indirect. Avoid direct sun, which will scorch and bleach foliage. Tolerates lower light conditions better than most foliage plants, though colour and pattern intensity diminishes without sufficient brightness. A north- or east-facing window is bes.
Temperature
18–24°C. Keep above 15°C. Protect from cold drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations, to which this plant is particularly sensitive.
Humidity
High. Mist stems regularly, place on a pebble tray with water, or position near a humidifier. An ideal candidate for a terrarium or a humid bathroom. Avoid dry indoor air, particularly in winter.
Water
Every 1–2 weeks (winter). Reduce watering slightly but do not allow substrate to dry out fully. Always check moisture level before watering. Water at the base of the plant; avoid wetting foliage. Always check moisture level before watering. Aerate mix to improve its condition.
Fertilizer
Every 2 weeks (spring–fall). Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer, according to packaging instructions. Do not fertilize in winter.
Maintenance
Every 1-2 weeks, rotate plant to ensure even growth. Remove spent or damaged leaves at their base with sterile shears. Pinch back stem tips regularly to encourage bushy, compact growth and prevent legginess. Inspect for pests periodically.
Potting and Repotting
Soil-based potting mix. Transplant once pot-bound. Every 2–3 years (spring), move plant into a planter 1–2" larger (diameter); or repot in the same planter using fresh substrate after cleaning planter and lightly trimming roots. Top dress annually once maximum convenient planter size is reached. A wide, shallow planter is preferred over a deep one.
Special Points/Common Problems:
- Fittonia wilts dramatically and rapidly when underwatered — a behaviour sometimes called the "fainting" response. Water promptly and the plant will typically recover fully within hours.
- Yellowing leaves may indicate overwatering, low light or natural ageing of older leaves at the base.
- Crispy leaf edges or browning tips suggest low humidity or exposure to dry drafts.
- Leggy, sparse growth indicates insufficient light or infrequent pinching. Trim back regularly to maintain a full, dense habit.
- Propagate easily from stem cuttings in spring or summer.