A low, spreading plant with leaves laced in fine pink or white veins. Pet-safe and perfect for terrariums, it dramatically wilts when even slightly dry.
At a glance
- Plant type: Indoor plant
- Mature size: 15 cm tall
- Aspect: part shade or morning sun and shade and low-light positions
- Water: consistently moist soil
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: high maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Nerve Plant
Botanically, Fittonia albivenis is an moderate-growing indoor plant in the Acanthaceae family. It reaches around 15 cm tall at maturity, with evergreen and variegated foliage.
Where to grow Nerve Plant
Nerve Plant suits tropical and subtropical climates and grows best in part shade or morning sun and shade and low-light positions. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot.
Soil & planting
Most soils suit Nerve Plant provided drainage is reasonable. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Nerve Plant is consistently moist soil. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Nerve Plant in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Overall it is high maintenance.
Using Nerve Plant in the garden
Nerve Plant earns its place for pots and courtyard containers. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Nerve Plant with other plants that enjoy the same consistently moist soil and tropical climate. Repeat it through a border to tie the planting together and give a sense of rhythm.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Nerve Plant
Plant Sale lists Nerve Plant as potted plants. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment we have it ready.