Growing guide
Small and low-growing, with boldly veined leaves, these striking houseplants love a humid environment. This makes them perfect for bathrooms, bottle gardens and terrariums.
Bright veining on the leaves, in various colours
Low, compact plants that spread slowly outwards
They need warmth (at least 15°C/60°F) and high humidity, such as in a terrarium
Position in bright light, but out of direct sun
Fittonias originate in the tropical forests of Peru, shaded from the sun but in high humidity. So they need similar conditions when grown as houseplants. They are naturally low-growing and spread slowly outwards rather than upwards, so are ideal if space is tight. These distinctive plants are prized for their boldly patterned leaves, with veins in various contrasting colours, including white and pink.
Their highly ornamental foliage and spreading habit means fittonias work well in terrariums, either combined with other plants in a large sealed terrarium or as a single specimen in a small one, or even just in a glass jar. Choose plants of the same or different colours, whichever you prefer. Although fittonias are generally sold without cultivar names in mixed selections, you may see the following for sale:
‘Skeleton’ – lime-yellow leaves with red veining
‘White Anne’ – green leaves with bright white veining
‘Lemon’ – lime-green leaves with white veining
‘White Star’ – almost white leaves with thin green veins
‘Forest Flame’ – red leaves with a dark green margin
‘Pink Forest Flame’ – pink leaves with a dark green margin
‘Mistral’ – dark green leaf with narrow pink veins
Other compact plants that combine well with fittonias and like similar growing conditions include mind-your-own-business (Soleirolia soleirolii), clubmosses (Selaginella) and basket plants (Callisia repens).
Fittonias are often sold in multi-packs or as reasonably priced small potted plants in the houseplant area of garden centres and from online houseplant retailers. Choose strong healthy plants that show no signs of withering or leaf damage and have a well-developed root system. Also check for insect damage. As these are tropical plants, take care to keep them warm when bringing them home. Common namesFittonias may also be sold under the common names of mosaic plant, nerve plant or network plant.
Fittonias may also be sold under the common names of mosaic plant, nerve plant or network plant.
Avoid keeping fittonias in places where they’ll dry out quickly, such as on south-facing windowsills or near radiators and fires.
Fittonias need a bright spot that’s away from direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves. Near a north- or east-facing window is ideal. Keep at 15°C (60°F) or higher, and out of cold draughts.
Fittonias thrive in a warm room that stays above 17°C (63°F). Keep them out of cold draughts and away from drying heat sources such as radiators.
Keep the compost moist by watering frequently. Fittonias in terrariums or sealed glass containers will need less frequent watering, since the humidity will prevent the compost drying out too quickly.
Lack of water will cause fittonias to droop or wilt. Although this can be worrying, they soon recover once watered thoroughly (provided you don’t leave it too long).
Fittonias need moist air, otherwise their leaves turn brown. An enclosed terrarium, or a steamy bathroom or kitchen, are usually good locations for them. High humidity can also be created elsewhere by standing the pot on a wide tray filled with damp gravel or clay granules (Hydroleca) and keeping the water topped up. For more tips on how to increase humidity, watch our video guide:
Fittonias aren’t particularly hungry plants. Feed them occasionally (once every two or three months) with a half-strength general-purpose or houseplant fertiliser when you water.
Divide large clumps by separating the rootball into several sections with your hands, so each new plant has three or more stems. Replant these individually (see Planting, above).
In spring and summer, take stem-tip cuttings. Remove several strong, healthy stems around 5cm (2in) long and cut them just below a pair of leaves at the base. Insert them vertically into a pot of moist peat-free compost and keep in a humid atmosphere (such as in a propagator or sealed clear bag) until well-rooted. See our guide to taking softwood cuttings for full details.
Fittonias are generally trouble free, as long as they are kept in a humid atmosphere and watered regularly. They may occasionally be affected by:
Sap-sucking insects – including red spider mites and mealybugs
Leaf scorch – position away from heat sources and direct sunlight. Low humidity can also cause leaf browning
Leaf yellowing – usually indicates a lack of light. Move the plant to a brighter spot
Grey mould (Botrytis) can thrive in humid environments. Remove any affected plant material
Also see the following guides:
Everything you need to know about choosing the right fittonia for you.
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