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 a 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. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Nerve Plant prefers consistently moist soil. A light spring feed is usually enough to maintain steady growth. New plantings need closer moisture checks in hot or windy weather, with watering tapered once strong new growth appears.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Nerve Plant in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Expect a high maintenance care workload once it is established.
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 easier irrigation and care, group Nerve Plant with species that also favour consistently moist soil and tropical climate. Leave enough room for the mature spread so neighbouring plants are not crowded out.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Nerve Plant
Plant Sale lists Nerve Plant as potted plants. Catalogue forms are planning guidance until the Plant Sale team confirms live availability.
