Nerve plant - Fittonia albivenis (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images)

Nerve plant

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

The nerve plant is an excellent houseplant that is native to South American rainforests. The patterns on the leaves are highly decorative, and the plant needs to be maintained at a temperature above 13 ℃ and watered regularly. This Fittonia albivenis can be difficult to grow, so it is recommended that you purchase it directly from a nursery.

Scientific classification

Species

Nerve plant (Fittonia albivenis)

Mints plantains olives and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer

Bloom Time

Early spring, Mid spring, Late winter

Harvest Time

8 cm to 15 cm

Plant Height

15 cm to 30 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Green

Fruit Color

White

Flower Color

Green, Red, Burgundy

Stem Color

Non-dormant

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer

Growth Season

Slow

Growth Rate

Images of Nerve plant

Distribution of Nerve plant

Distribution Map

The nerve plant is native to tropical South America, where it naturally occurs in rainforests. The plant is cultivated worldwide, but in temperate regions, it's commonly grown as a houseplant.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Forest

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Nerve plant can be used in tropical areas as a ground cover plant. The intricate venation and bright colors make these sought-after plants for both indoor and outdoor use. These plants are typically grown for their foliage, although if flowering occurs they are usually snipped off as the flowers are not particularly showy.

Symbolism

wisdom

Interesting Facts

It is a new generation of small indoor shady foliage plants. It is a short creeping plant with small leaves and fine white or red reticulation on the leaf surface. It is popular all over the world. Potted plants can be used as indoor ornamentals in studies, on tea tables, in windowsills and other places; and it can also be used as a hanging plant.

Name Story

Nerve plant: If you observe the leaves carefully, you will find the veins attractive. The white or red veins exhibit a sharp contrast to the dark green ones, displaying the whole veins structure are clearly, just like the direction of human nerves. So, it is called nerve plant.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Nerve plant, including the following common varieties :

Mosaic Plant 'Mini White'Nerve plant 'Frankie'Nerve plant 'Pink Wave'Nerve plant 'Juanita'Nerve plant 'White Brocade'Nerve plant 'Red Anne'Nerve plant 'Black Star'Nerve plant 'Minima'Nerve plant 'Pink Angel'

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.

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Care Guide for Nerve plant

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Originating from tropical rainforests, nerve plant prefers high humidity and consistent moisture without waterlogging. It exhibits moderate drought tolerance, requiring weekly watering. Regular misting helps replicate its natural habitat, maintaining its vibrant, hydrated foliage as an ornamental indoor plant.

Fertilize: Fertilize nerve plant with high nitrogen formulas every 4-6 weeks in spring and summer for vigorous growth. Use half-strength solutions to avoid root burn and reduce frequency in winter. Proper dilution and seasonal adjustments enhance nerve plant's health while minimizing over-fertilization risks.

Pruning: Nerve plant features vibrant, veined foliage and thrives with regular pruning in early to late spring. Trim leggy stems and discolored leaves to encourage bushier growth, maintain a compact shape, and ensure good air circulation. Use clean, sharp scissors to prevent stress or infection.

Propagation: Propagating nerve plant via stem cuttings is highly effective. Use healthy cuttings with 2-3 leaf nodes, placed in moist soil or water. Rooting hormone is optional. Ensure regular humidity, warmth, and indirect light while avoiding waterlogged conditions for optimal growth after propagation.

Repotting: Repot nerve plant every 2-3 years in spring, using a slightly larger, shallow pot. Use well-draining soil and provide bright, indirect light. Maintain high humidity for recovery and trim excessively long roots during repotting to promote better health.

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Images of Nerve plant

Distribution of Nerve plant

Culture

Cultivars

Quickly Identify Nerve plant

Care Guide for Nerve plant

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