Nerve Plant Fittonia albivenis Verschaffeltii Group
ABOUT
The plant commonly known as the Nerve Plant is famous for its striking and ornamental foliage. It has a dense growth habit and showcases lush green leaves that are veined spectacularly with contrasting colors such as white, pink, or red, creating a nerve-like pattern that is both intricate and eye-catching. The leaves are broadly ovate with a pointed tip and have a glossy surface that gives them a luscious appearance. These vibrant veins are not only a prominent feature but also branch out across the leaf surface making it look like an intricate network. The Nerve Plant's overall appearance is lush and tropical, and it often forms a ground-covering mat due to its spreading nature. Its appeal lies in the rich tapestry of colors displayed by its leaves, which can add a dramatic effect to indoor plant collections or terrariums where it is most commonly used.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Acanthaceae.
Synonyms
Nerve Plant, Mosaic Plant, Painted Net Leaf, Silver Net Leaf.
Common names
Fittonia verschaffeltii, Fittonia argyroneura, Fittonia gigantea, Fittonia pearcei.
ToxicityTo humans
The Fittonia albivenis Verschaffeltii Group, commonly known as the Nerve Plant, is not considered toxic to humans. Ingesting this plant is unlikely to cause any significant symptoms of poisoning or adverse health effects. Therefore, the Nerve Plant is generally regarded as safe to keep in homes.
To pets
The Nerve Plant is also non-toxic to pets, including cats and dogs. Ingestion of this plant should not result in any severe symptoms of poisoning for pets. However, it is always advisable to prevent pets from consuming plants, as individual animals may have sensitivities or allergic reactions, and ingestion may sometimes cause mild stomach upset.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Variegated
Height
6 inches [15 cm]
Spread
18 inches [45 cm]
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
11
Native area
South America
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: The Fittonia, commonly known as the Nerve Plant, offers vibrant foliage with contrasting veins that enhance the visual interest of indoor spaces.
- Low Maintenance: Nerve Plants are relatively easy to care for, making them suitable for beginners or those with a busy lifestyle.
- Humidity Indicator: The Nerve Plant's leaves will wilt if the air is too dry, serving as a natural indicator for maintaining appropriate humidity levels.
- Size Control: Due to their compact size, Nerve Plants are ideal for small spaces and terrariums, allowing for creative plant arrangements without requiring much room.
- Psychological Benefits: The presence of Nerve Plants in a living or working space can contribute to reduced stress and increased feelings of well-being.
- Thematic Gardening: With their distinctive appearance, Nerve Plants can be used effectively in terrariums and fairy gardens to create thematic or fantasy landscapes indoors.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Nerve Plant as a Terrarium Plant: Due to its small size and love of humidity, the nerve plant is an ideal candidate for terrariums, creating a lush, miniature forest feel.
- Living Art Installations: The colorful foliage of the nerve plant can be used in living wall art or vertical gardens for decorative purposes in homes and offices.
- Educational Tool: The nerve plant can be used in classrooms or educational programs to teach children about plant care, particularly about the importance of watering and light for plant health.
- Photography Prop: The vibrant leaves of the nerve plant provide an excellent backdrop or accent in macro photography, showcasing the delicate vein patterns.
- Gift Plant: Due to its attractive appearance and relatively easy care, nerve plants are often given as gifts for office desks or homes.
- Fairy Gardens: Nerve plants are suitable for fairy gardens due to their miniature size and can be used to simulate a tiny forest or meadow environment.
- Stress Relief: Having a nerve plant around may contribute to stress reduction, as nurturing any type of plant has been shown to lower stress levels.
- Event Decor: Nerve plants are used in table centerpieces or as part of floral arrangements during events for visual interest and a pop of color.
- Feng Shui: Some people believe that placing a nerve plant in particular areas of the home can bring positive energy according to the principles of Feng Shui.
- Creative Planters: The nerve plant's flexibility allows it to be grown in creative planters, such as teacups or hanging glass orbs, for a unique display.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Nerve Plant is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Nerve Plant is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Attraction: The Fittonia albivenis Verschaffeltii Group, commonly known as the Nerve Plant, has intricate vein patterns that symbolize attraction and can be associated with an alluring beauty or intricate detail that draws attention.
- Charm: The Nerve Plant's vibrant leaves are often associated with charm and the power to captivate or enchant an onlooker with their unique and colorful appearance.
- Endurance: Although the Nerve Plant may appear delicate, it is quite hardy when its needs are met, symbolizing endurance and the ability to thrive in difficult circumstances.
- Passion for Nature: With its bright foliage and natural beauty, the Nerve Plant is often linked to a love for the natural world and the passion of those who enjoy caring for and cultivating plants.
WaterThe nerve plant, commonly known as Fittonia, prefers consistent moisture and should be watered every week with approximately 8-16 ounces of water, depending on the size of the pot and the environmental conditions. Always water thoroughly until excess water drains out of the bottom, but do not allow the plant to sit in water as this can lead to root rot. It is crucial to keep the soil moist but not soggy; if the leaves begin to droop, this is a sign that the plant needs water. During the winter months, reduce watering frequency as plant growth slows down.
LightNerve plants thrive in bright, indirect light but can tolerate low light conditions. The best spot for this plant would be a north-facing window or a position with filtered light, as direct sunlight can scorch the leaves. Keeping the Fittonia in a well-lit area without direct sun exposure will promote vibrant leaf color and growth.
TemperatureThe ideal temperature range for nerve plants is between 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive minimum temperatures of no less than 55 degrees Fahrenheit, but cold drafts and sudden temperature changes should be avoided. Sustained temperatures in the ideal range will support the most vigorous growth and health of the Fittonia.
PruningPruning nerve plants encourages bushier growth and maintains their compact, attractive shape. Trim back leggy stems using clean scissors or pruning shears, ideally during spring or summer which is their active growing period. Pruning can be done every few months or as needed to remove dead or yellowing leaves and to keep the plant looking tidy.
CleaningAs needed
SoilNerve Plant prefers a peat-based potting mix with good drainage, high in organic matter. Mix two parts peat or coco coir with one part perlite or sand to increase aeration. The ideal soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingNerve Plants should be repotted every one to two years to refresh the soil. They do not require frequent repotting due to their size; however, if they outgrow their current pot or the soil is exhausted, it's time to repot.
Humidity & MistingNerve Plant thrives in high humidity conditions, ideally between 60% to 70%. Less humidity can lead to browning leaf edges, so maintaining a humid environment is crucial for this plant's health.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Nerve Plant in bright, indirect light and high humidity.
Outdoor
Grow Nerve Plant in shade, protect from cold, ensure high humidity.
Hardiness zone
11-12 USDA
Life cycleThe Fittonia albivenis Verschaffeltii Group, commonly known as the Nerve Plant, begins its lifecycle with seed germination, typically in a warm and moist environment, which is critical for the initiation of growth. After sprouting, the young seedlings grow into juvenile plants, where they develop their characteristic patterned leaves with vibrant nerve-like veins. During the vegetative stage, the Nerve Plant focuses on leaf expansion and root system development. This plant does not generally flower frequently, especially indoors, if it does, it produces small, non-showy flowers that are often pruned to redirect energy into foliage growth. Given favorable conditions, Fittonia can live for many years, often propagated through stem cuttings or leaf-node cuttings to maintain its ornamental appeal. Over time, without proper care, the plant may enter a decline phase, where leaves yellow and growth slows before eventually the plant dies.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
For the Nerve Plant, or Fittonia albivenis Verschaffeltii Group, the most popular method of propagation is via stem cuttings, preferably done in the spring or early summer when the plant's growth is most active. To propagate, select a healthy stem with at least two to three leaves and cut just below a node using a clean, sharp knife or scissors. The cutting should be about 3-4 inches (approximately 7.5-10 cm) long. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting to expose the nodes where roots will grow. The cut end of the stem can then be dipped in rooting hormone powder to enhance root development, although this is optional. The prepared cutting should be placed in a small pot with moist potting soil or directly in water. Ensure the soil remains moist but not waterlogged, and if you are rooting in water, change the water every few days to prevent stagnation. Roots typically begin to develop within 2-3 weeks, and once they are an inch or so long (about 2.5 cm), the new Nerve Plant can be transplanted into a pot with fresh soil to continue growing.
