Fittonia albivenis - Information and Plant Care
Fittonia albivenis, commonly known as the nerve plant or mosaic plant, is a stunning evergreen perennial native to the tropical rainforests of South America, particularly Colombia and Peru. This creeping beauty is adored for its vibrant, deeply veined foliage, making it an eye-catching addition to any indoor space. With its compact growth habit, Fittonia albivenis thrives as a groundcover in terrariums or as a striking standalone plant in containers.
Key Features of Fittonia albivenis
- Vibrant Foliage: Deep olive-green leaves with striking white veins create a beautiful mosaic-like pattern.
- Compact Growth: Grows up to 20 cm in height and spreads up to 50 cm, making it perfect for terrariums and small spaces.
- Decorative Appeal: The Verschaffeltii Group variant features red veins for an extra pop of color.
Fittonia albivenis Care Tips
- Light: Prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sun, which can scorch the leaves.
- Watering: Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water.
- Humidity: Thrives in high humidity. A terrarium or a humidifier can help maintain ideal conditions.
- Temperature: Best kept between 18°C and 24°C. Avoid drafts and temperatures below 15°C.
- Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix with organic matter to retain moisture while preventing root rot.
- Fertilization: Feed monthly with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season.
Common Issues with Fittonia albivenis and Solutions
- Drooping Leaves: Often a sign of underwatering or low humidity. Increase watering and humidity as needed.
- Browning Edges: Caused by dry air. Use a pebble tray or humidifier to maintain proper moisture levels.
- Yellowing Leaves: Usually due to overwatering. Ensure good drainage and adjust watering habits.
- Pests: Watch for mealybugs, spider mites, and fungus gnats. Treat with insecticidal soap , neem oil, or use beneficial insects.
Additional Growing Tips for Fittonia albivenis
- Rotate the plant regularly for even growth.
- Remove flower buds to focus energy on foliage.
- Placing it near filtered light will enhance its color vibrancy.
Etymology
The genus name Fittonia honors botanist sisters Elizabeth and Sarah Mary Fitton, known for their contributions to botanical literature. The species name albivenis means "with white veins," referencing its signature leaf patterns.
Fittonia albivenis
Fittonia albivenis comes in following sizes:
Plug (Starter Plant) – ⌀ 2 cm and is approximately 8 cm tall
Baby Plant – is approximately 10 cm tall and comes in a ⌀ 6 cm pot.
