Nerve plant care guide
Fittonia albivenis
Also known as: Mosaic plant, Fittonia verschaffeltii
Pets and children
We haven't been able to confirm how this plant affects pets or small children. If any is eaten, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
How often to water Nerve plant
- Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
- Every 3 days
- Water well when the topsoil dries and do not let it dry right out, as a guide; it collapses when thirsty but recovers if watered promptly.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov)
- Every 4 days
- Cooler weather slows drying, so generally water about a day after the surface dries.
- Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Every 7 days
- Water sparingly about two to three days after the soil dries, and mist in a dry room.
Light and placement for Nerve plant
Bright shade out of direct sun is about right; it generally grows even under indoor lighting, but in deep shade the colored veins dull and the stems stretch.
Overwintering Nerve plant
Overwintering guide: 12°C (54°F) or above
Very tender: keep it indoors above about 12°C, moving it to a warm spot when nights fall below 15°C, away from cold windows, and mist or humidify where heating dries the air.
Fertilizing and repotting Nerve plant
Fertilizer
Diluted liquid fertilizer about every two to three weeks from May to September; it is a small plant that needs little, and none in winter.
When to repot
Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
Common problems with Nerve plant
- Left wilting from thirst, it dries up for good.
- Low humidity browns and crinkles the leaf edges.
- Winter cold blackens and drops the leaves.
Tips for growing Nerve plant
- Pinch the tips often for a bushy plant, and remove the flower spikes early.
- It loves humidity and does well in a glass terrarium.
- Stem cuttings root easily in moist soil.
These are AI-generated general guidelines. They vary with the variety, the placement and the pot size. For effects on pets or children, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
Keep your plant log going
Greenery is a free app that keeps your plant care going, with watering reminders and photo records. Available on iOS and Android.
