How to grow fittonia

What are fittonias?

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.

Choosing fittonias 

Their highly ornamental foliage and spreading habit means fittonias work well in terrariums, either combined with other plants in a large sealed

A miniature garden or ecosystem contained within a glass or plastic container. If sealed, self-sustaining terrariums need very little to no maintenance. Small and slow-growing foliage plants, miniature ferns and mosses are great for sealed terrariums, and succulents and cacti for open terrariums. The first example of a terrarium was a Wardian Case, which helped plant collectors bring back and introduce new, exotic plants in the 19th century.

Gardeners often use the word variety when referring to a specific plant, but the correct botanical term is 'cultivar'. Whichever word you use, it means a distinctive plant or plants, given a specific cultivar name and usually bred to enhance certain characteristics, such as flower or fruit size, colour, flavour or fragrance, plant size, hardiness, disease resistance, etc. Additionally, it is worth knowing that, botanically, variety has another meaning - it refers to a naturally-occurring distinct plant that only has slight differences in its looks. For example, Malva alcea var. fastigiata differs from typical plants by having an upright habit.

cultivar

• ‘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). 

Buying fittonias

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.

Location

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.  

Temperature

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.

Watering 

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).
 

Houseplant 101: Episode Four

Houseplant 101: Episode Four

Houseplants: holiday care

Houseplants: holiday care

Water: using softened and other types

Water: using softened and other types

Humidity

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:

Feeding 

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.  

Fertilisers

Fertilisers

Houseplant 101: Episode Five

Houseplant 101: Episode Five

By division

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).   

By stem cuttings

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:
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How to help a poorly houseplant

How to help a poorly houseplant

Leaf damage on houseplants

Leaf damage on houseplants