Fittonia: cultivation, care and tips for successful indoor growing

The cultivation needs of Fittonia

Fittonia, également connue sous le nom de "plante mosaïque", est une plante d'intérieur populaire appréciée pour son feuillage décoratif. Originaire des forêts tropicales d'Amérique du Sud, cette plante est caractérisée par ses feuilles ovales et brillantes, souvent marquées de veines blanches ou rouges qui créent un effet visuel saisissant. Les Fittonias préfèrent un environnement humide et une lumière indirecte, ce qui les rend idéales pour les terrariums ou les espaces intérieurs avec une humidité contrôlée. Elles nécessitent un arrosage régulier, mais il est important de ne pas trop les arroser pour éviter la pourriture des racines. En raison de leur taille compacte, les Fittonias sont parfaites pour les jardiniers amateurs qui cherchent à ajouter une touche de couleur à leur collection de plantes d'intérieur. Avec un entretien approprié, ces plantes peuvent prospérer et apporter une ambiance tropicale à n'importe quel espace.

Fittonia belongs to the Acanthaceae family, a large botanical family that also includes plants like Hypoestes and Justicia, known for their decorative and colourful foliage. Fittonia is often encountered under the name “mosaic plant” or “nerve plant,” referring to the contrasting veins that adorn its leaves.

Native to the tropical forests of South America, primarily Peru and Colombia, Fittonia naturally thrives under the dense cover of humid forests. It flourishes in a shaded environment, where the air humidity is constantly high and the light, filtered by the canopy, remains diffuse. This ground-cover plant favours undergrowth where the soil remains cool and rich in organic matter.

In our latitudes, Fittonia is cultivated exclusively indoors, as it does not tolerate low temperatures. It is a frost-sensitive plant, with hardiness limited to around 15 °C. Its sensitivity to cold, combined with its needs for humidity and soft light, makes it an ideal plant for living spaces protected from direct sunlight.

The genus Fittonia comprises about ten recognised species, although in cultivation, only a few are truly widespread. These include Fittonia albivenis, from which many horticultural varieties have been selected for their particularly decorative foliage. Fittonia verschaffeltii is another appreciated species, often confused with F. albivenis, whose varieties are cultivated for their pronounced veins and compact habit.

Fittonia albivenis

Fittonia appears as a low-growing, spreading herbaceous plant, particularly suited to shaded areas. The plant typically does not exceed 10 to 15 centimetres in height, but can spread laterally over several dozen centimetres when conditions are favourable. It does not develop a lignified trunk or rigid structure, with its stems being flexible, slightly creeping to ascending, allowing it to cover the ground or gently cascade when grown in pots or hanging.

The stems, a tender green sometimes tinged with reddish at their base, are cylindrical, thin, and regularly knotted, bearing closely spaced opposite leaves. The foliage is the main ornamental asset of the plant. The leaves, simple, entire, and ovate to elliptical in shape, have smooth edges and a soft, slightly velvety texture. They measure 3 to 7 centimetres long depending on the variety. The leaf surface is marked by prominent and strongly contrasting veins, white, pink, or red depending on the cultivar, creating a complex network that resembles a mosaic.

Fittonia ‘Pink Forest Flame’ (© Tim Sheerman)

The flowering of Fittonia remains discreet and unimpressive, even rarer indoors. When it occurs, it manifests as small terminal inflorescences, composed of tiny tubular flowers. These flowers, grouped in short spikes, are generally white to cream, sometimes tinged with pale yellow, and discreetly inserted between the bracts.

Fruiting is also exceptional in indoor cultivation and occurs, in its natural state, as small dry capsules containing fine seeds.

Finally, Fittonia is attributed with benefits and purifying virtues, contributing to improving the ambient air while adding an original green touch, even in dimly lit rooms.

Fittonia Varieties

Fittonia albivenis Joly Josan Red - Nerve plant

An unusual cultivar with beautiful olive green foliage, adorned with bright red veins

• Hauteur à maturité 10 cm

See the product sheet

Fittonia albivenis Pink Special - Nerve plant

Distinguished by beautiful pink veins that add a delicately coloured touch to its green foliage.

• Hauteur à maturité 10 cm

See the product sheet

Fittonia albivenis Mini White - Nerve plant

Compact variety with dense foliage, marked by fine raised white veins that highlight each leaf.

• Hauteur à maturité 10 cm

See the product sheet

Planting Fittonia in a pot

When to Plant in a Pot?

Planting can be done all year round indoors, avoiding periods when temperatures drop below +15 °C.

Which Pot to Choose for Planting a Fittonia?

The mini-plants or plug plants we offer, easy to handle, are perfectly suited for pot, window box, or terrarium cultivation, allowing for a quick decorative effect, even in confined spaces. In a pot, choose a container with a diameter of 7 to 10 cm, with drainage holes, not too large or too deep, to encourage rooting. For hanging, prefer a lightweight and well-drained pot, planted at the edge to highlight the trailing stems.

To grow a Fittonia in a terrarium, opt for a glass container, with a drainage layer at the bottom (clay balls or gravel), followed by a light and moist substrate where you can plant the plug plant directly. This type of confined space provides the Fittonia with an ideal environment, warm and very humid.

→ Discover our tutorial How to Make an Open Terrarium?

Where and How to Install It?

Planting the Fittonia indoors requires special attention to light. This tropical plant thrives ideally under bright, yet filtered light, away from direct sunlight which can scorch its delicate leaves. It also tolerates lower light conditions, making it an excellent choice for dimly lit rooms. Humidity should remain high, between 60 and 80 %, as overly dry air quickly leads to wilting foliage. This humidity requirement makes the Fittonia perfectly suited for terrariums or bright bathrooms. The ideal temperature for its development is between 18 and 24 °C, conditions that should be maintained to ensure its health and vibrancy.

Recommended Substrate

Plant the Fittonia in a potting mix for indoor plants or a light homemade mix that is draining and rich in organic matter, which retains moisture without holding excess water. Here is the ideal substrate composition:

• 60 % light and sieved potting mix
• 20 % perlite or horticultural sand for drainage
• 20 % coconut fibre or blonde peat to promote moisture retention

Steps for Planting Mini-Plants:

• Prepare a container with drainage holes (pot, window box, or suitable terrarium).
• Fill the bottom with a layer of clay balls or gravel, especially in pots, to avoid any water stagnation.
• Install the prepared substrate, ensuring to mix it well for a homogeneous structure.
• Gently plant the mini-plants, taking care not to damage the fine roots.
• Level the substrate around the plugs without compacting too much to preserve aeration.
• Water moderately just after planting, ensuring the entire substrate is moist without being waterlogged.

For more information, check our tutorial: How to Repot My Indoor Plug Plants?

Planting Fittonia in a Terrarium

Fittonia is perfect for terrariums due to its small size and high humidity requirements. Use our plug plants, easy to install, and place them in a terrarium with:

• A drainage layer (clay balls or gravel)
• A light and draining substrate (potting mix + perlite)

My advice: For terrarium compositions, it is recommended to plant in groups, varying the colours of the veins for optimal graphic effect. Space the Fittonias slightly apart so they can spread without crowding each other.

Cultivation and care of indoor Fittonia

Watering

Watering of Fittonia should be moderate but very regular, as this tropical plant cannot tolerate either complete drying out of the medium or excess stagnant water. During the growth period, from spring to autumn, it is advisable to water approximately 2 to 3 times a week, depending on the temperature and ambient humidity. Allow the surface of the medium to dry slightly between waterings, then thoroughly moisten the root ball until water drains from the drainage holes. Preferably use non-limestone water at room temperature.

In winter, with more stable temperatures and reduced water needs, watering every 7 to 10 days is sufficient, ensuring that the medium never dries out completely. In a terrarium, the frequency can be even less, depending on the already high humidity level.

Soft and pendulous leaves… this Fittonia needs water!

Fertilisation

Fittonia is not particularly demanding, but a fertiliser can support its growth and revive the intensity of its coloured veins. During the growth period, from spring to the end of summer, apply a diluted liquid fertiliser for indoor plants, specific to green plants, every four to six weeks. A low-nitrogen fertiliser is suitable for promoting dense and healthy foliage. In autumn and winter, suspend fertiliser applications, as the plant naturally slows its growth.

Pruning

Pruning is not essential, but it helps maintain a dense and compact habit. Pinch the tips of the stems if they elongate or become bare at the base. Regularly remove damaged or dried leaves to support the overall health of the plant. This maintenance action also stimulates branching, especially in terrarium or pot culture.

Precautions to Take

Light: Fittonia enjoys moderate to bright indirect light. Too much direct light can scorch its leaves, while a lack of light causes stem etiolation and fading colours.
Humidity: This plant requires a humid atmosphere, with an ideal humidity level between 60 and 80%. Placed in a terrarium or on a tray of moistened clay balls, it will find conditions close to its natural habitat, promoting its flourishing and the beauty of its foliage. Outside of closed terrariums, regularly mist its foliage with soft water, especially during heating periods. Using a tray of moist clay balls under the pot is recommended. Occasionally mist the foliage if outside a terrarium.
Temperature: Fittonia should be kept in a temperate environment, between 18 and 24 °C. Below 15 °C, the plant suffers and may decline. It is sensitive to cold drafts and sudden temperature changes.
Tip for Beautiful Growth: Rotate the pot regularly to ensure the plant maintains a balanced habit. Clean the leaves with a soft, damp cloth to remove dust that limits their ability to capture light.

Repotting Fittonia

Repotting is typically done every two years in spring, when the roots fill the pot or the medium becomes depleted. Use a light and draining mix composed of universal potting soil enriched with perlite or sand. Choose a container that is slightly larger (2 to 3 cm more) than the previous one, always with drainage holes. Repotting stimulates growth and helps maintain dense and colourful foliage.

In the case of a terrarium, repotting Fittonia is rarely necessary, especially if the space is well-suited and the plants are not cramped. However, it may be useful every 2 to 3 years if the medium becomes exhausted or if the plant becomes too dense. Take the opportunity to renew the potting soil, space the plants if necessary, and thoroughly clean the container before replanting.

Fittonia diseases and pests

As with any houseplant, Fittonia can be susceptible to a few parasitic issues and diseases, especially under stress (too dry air, excess water, lack of light). Here is a summary table of the most common problems and suitable natural solutions:

For more information, read our advice sheets on Aphids: identification and treatments, and Mealybugs: identification and natural treatments.

Preventing diseases and pests on Fittonia

To prevent the appearance of pests and diseases on Fittonia, simply follow a few simple rules:

• Maintain a high humidity, especially in winter or dry air, by regularly misting the foliage.
• Avoid excess water and ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
• Clean the leaves with a damp cloth to limit dust and quickly detect pests.

How to take a cutting of Fittonia?

The most effective and simplest method to propagate a Fittonia is propagation by cuttings in water. It’s quick, visual, and the success rate is excellent. Here’s how to proceed:

1. Cut a healthy stem 5 to 8 cm long, just below a node, using a clean, sharp tool.
2. Remove the lower leaves, leaving only the top leaves.
3. Place the stem in a glass of water, immersing the node (the point where the roots will appear), but ensuring the leaves do not touch the water.
4. Position the glass in indirect light and at room temperature (between 20 and 24 °C).
5. Change the water every 3 to 4 days to keep it clean.
6. The first roots usually appear in 2 to 3 weeks.
7. Once the roots measure 3 to 5 cm, replant the cutting in a pot with a light, well-draining substrate.

Note: It is also possible to propagate directly in soil, using a light and moist substrate, while maintaining high humidity with a cloche or a transparent plastic bag to encourage recovery.

Propagation by cuttings in water of Fittonia, Philodendron, and Pothos

Associations and decor

Fittonia, with its finely veined foliage and vibrant colours, is a perfect plant for creating trendy plant displays, whether in pots or terrariums. Its low, creeping growth allows it to form a lovely carpet of decorative leaves, ideal for dressing the base of a composition or the edges of a container.

In a terrarium, it pairs wonderfully with other plants that enjoy warmth and humidity, such as Ficus pumila ‘Bellus’ or Ficus pumila ‘Arina’, whose trailing foliage perfectly complements the miniature jungle effect. You can also mix several varieties of Fittonia with white, red, or pink veins for a graphic and colourful display.

In pots, Fittonia is just as decorative, whether on a shelf, a desk, or even hanging. Its slightly trailing stems cascade beautifully, especially in hanging baskets, adding a touch of exoticism and freshness to the room. It easily finds its place in a bathroom or kitchen, two spaces that are often bright and humid, reminiscent of its natural habitat. To vary textures and foliage, pair it with a Pilea peperomioides, with its round and graphic leaves, or a Chlorophytum comosum (spider plant), whose long variegated leaves cascade down.

Fittonia albivenis