Nerve plant (Fittonia gigantea)
Care, watering, light and tips for Nerve plant on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Acanthaceae
- Difficulty: Moderate care
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Nerve plant
Fittonia gigantea, known as 'stort åderblad', is a tropical plant from the Acanthaceae family, prized for its lush foliage of large, intense green leaves with striking pink or red veins. Its generous size makes it an excellent choice for large terrariums, winter gardens, or as a prominent indoor plant where its vibrant coloring can be appreciated.
Native range
Tropical rainforests of South America, mainly Peru.
Care tips
It requires bright, indirect light; direct sunlight can scorch its leaves. Keep the substrate consistently moist, but avoid waterlogging, as it is prone to root rot. It prefers an organic-rich, well-draining substrate. A common mistake is allowing the substrate to dry out completely, which can cause the plant to dramatically wilt, although it often recovers upon watering.
How to save a dying Nerve plant
- Warning signs
- Drooping, limp, flaccid leaves, dehydrated appearance, pale coloration. Very dramatic.
- First aid
- Immediate bottom watering (submerge pot until no bubbles) and misting.
- What kills it
- Inconsistent watering and dry air; it doesn't tolerate dry soil or low humidity.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes! Very resilient. Recovers quickly with water, humidity, and indirect light.