Nerve Plants are prized for their colorfully-veined foliage. They are on the smaller end of the spectrum as far as houseplants go, so they might be a great option for those with limited space!
Background
Fittonia is a genus of plants native to tropical South America. They have dark green leaves with colored veins that are either white, red, or pink. The white and red-colored varieties are more common than the pink. They are most commonly known as ‘Nerve Plants’, although they might also be called ‘Mosaic Plants’.
Size
A Nerve plant grows to about 4-6 inches tall. They have a propensity to spread, so if given room to grow, they can spread out to about a foot long.
Growing Conditions
Light
Nerve Plants generally prefer somewhere around the medium light spectrum. Bright light is fine if it is indirect, filtered or dappled, but direct sunlight is a no-no. This is a plant that can tolerate receiving only artificial light.
Watering
Try and keep your Nerve Plants evenly moist but never soggy. One way to remember its botanical name of Fittonia is the fact that this plant loves to throw fits if you don’t give it just the right amount of water! It will give you a clear signal that it has dried out too much as all of the foliage will start to droop. You will eventually get the hang of it though, it just takes practice with this plant. Don’t let it keep drying out all the way to the point of drooping though as eventually the plant won’t bounce back and will fail.
Potting Mix
I would recommend a potting mix that retains moisture well, maybe an African Violet type soil mix. A regular potting mix wouldn’t be the end of the world though.
Humidity
As this plant loves higher humidity, it has become one of the more commonly selected plants for terrariums, especially because it tends to stay smaller in size as well. If you don’t have a terrarium you can still grow this plant well as long as you take the normal steps to raise the humidity level in whatever area it will be.
Fertilizer
Fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Stop monthly fertilization during the colder months.
Propagation
Can easily be propagated by cuttings.
Toxicity
Listed as non-toxic by the ASPCA.
Potential Problems
Root rot. A common mistake with Mosaic Plants would be over-watering leading to root rot. Yellowing of the foliage would be a tell-tale sign that this is happening. The best way to prevent this happening with any plant prone to root rot is by making sure your potting mix is well-draining.