Nerve plant (Fittonia albivenis)

Also known as: Silver-nerve plant, Silver-threads

The Calathea is an outstanding houseplant hailing from South American rainforests. Known for its vibrant, decorative leaf patterns, it thrives best in temperatures above 13°C and requires consistent watering. While it may be somewhat challenging to care for, obtaining this plant from a reputable nursery can ensure you start with a healthy specimen.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Nerve plant

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

8 cm to 15 cm

Spread

15 cm to 30 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2.5 cm

Flower Color

White

Images of Nerve plant

Quickly Identify Nerve plant

Vibrant leaf patterns with intricate veins in white, pink, or red against deep green.

Smooth leaves without pubescence, ideal for container or hanging baskets.

Erect terminal spike with small white flowers hidden by overlapping bracts.

Ovate leaves measuring 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) long, with prominent reticulate veins.

Succulent, creeping stem with fine hairs in shades of green, maroon, or green with maroon markings.

Scientific Classification of Nerve plant

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Mints plantains olives and allies

Family

Acanthus

Genus

Nerve plants

Species

Nerve plant

Planting and Growing of Nerve plant

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 8 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

4-6 hours

Ideal Temperature

65-80℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Nerve plant?

Fittonia albivenis prefers consistently moist soil. It is crucial to water the plant until water drains from the bottom of the pot. Ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged, as standing water can harm the roots.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Nerve plant? ›

What should I do if my Nerve plant is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Nerve plant? ›

How to save an overwatered Nerve plant? ›

More About Watering Techniques→

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Nerve plant?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun

Duration of light: 2 to 4 hours

Fittonia albivenis favors partial sun, receiving 2 to 4 hours of soft, indirect light daily. This range fosters vibrant leaf colors and healthy plant growth, providing the energy necessary for physiological processes.

What is the best light condition for Fittonia albivenis? ›

How can you ensure Fittonia albivenis receives its optimal sunlight? ›

What benefits does Fittonia albivenis gain from ideal lighting? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Nerve plant?

Ideal Temperature: 65 ~ 80℉

The ideal temperature range for Fittonia albivenis is between 65°F and 80°F. This plant thrives in warm conditions and prefers a stable environment that mimics its natural tropical habitat. Maintaining the temperature within this range supports its growth and vibrant foliage.

What Soil is Best for Nerve plant?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam, Peat soil

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Fittonia albivenis thrives in well-draining soil, which is essential to prevent root rot. A mix that drains efficiently keeps the roots healthy and provides adequate aeration. Ensuring excess water has a quick exit helps the plant maintain its optimal moisture level without sitting in water, which can be quite detrimental. This plant benefits from soil rich in organic matter. Adding compost or peat will supply essential nutrients and improve soil structure. The organic materials ensure the Fittonia albivenis has a steady release of nutrients available, aiding in lush growth and vibrant foliage coloration. Fittonia albivenis requires soil that maintains moisture but still stays airy. The soil should hold moisture to ensure the plant roots are never completely dry, promoting a healthy environment for root development. Yet, it should remain airy enough to breathe, preventing suffocation. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Nerve plant?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Fittonia albivenis, when applying liquid fertilizer, use a diluted solution at half the recommended strength. This prevents root burn and encourages healthy growth without overwhelming the plant with nutrients. More About Fertilizing Techniques→

How to Prune Nerve plant?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Fittonia albivenis is sensitive to excessive pruning. Ensure you only trim about 20% of the plant at a time to avoid stressing it. Regular, gentle pruning encourages bushy growth but be mindful not to overdo it, as the plant is delicate. Observe your plant for signs of stress such as wilting or discolored leaves. After pruning, water the plant adequately but do not overwater as this can lead to root rot. Carefully monitoring the plant's response to pruning helps in making necessary adjustments. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Nerve plant plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Late spring, Early spring

To ensure successful propagation, always begin by selecting a healthy parent plant. Choose a vibrant and disease-free plant, as the quality of the parent plant greatly affects the cutting's success.

Using your sharp scissors or pruning shears, make a cut below a node, ideally around 3-5 inches long. It's crucial to make a clean cut to prevent damage to both the parent plant and the cutting itself.

After dipping the cutting into the rooting hormone, plant it in well-draining soil. Maintain the soil moist but not overly saturated, as excessive water can lead to rot.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Nerve plant plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 1-2 years

The perfect time to repot your Fittonia albivenis is when you notice that its growth has slowed down, roots are poking out from the pot's drainage holes, or the water quickly runs through the pot instead of soaking in. These are signs that the plant has outgrown its current home, and by repotting, you can provide it with fresh nutrients and more room to flourish.

Select a pot that's just 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. This prevents the plant from being overwhelmed by too much soil and reduces the risk of waterlogging. A pot with drainage holes is crucial, as it ensures excess water can escape, keeping the roots healthy and preventing root rot. A suitable pot supports the plant's health and allows it to grow steadily over time.

Opt for a well-draining potting mix rich in organic material and perlite. This ensures the soil retains enough moisture without becoming waterlogged, which is essential for the health of Fittonia albivenis. The right potting mix provides a balance of aeration and moisture retention, supporting robust and healthy root growth, ultimately promoting vibrant foliage.

More About Repotting Techniques→