The Fittonia ‘White Anne’, also known as the Nerve Plant or Mosaic Plant, is a houseplant recognized for its striking foliage. Its small, green leaves are intricately patterned with bright white veins. This compact, low-growing plant is a popular choice for indoor gardeners.
Fittonia White Anne Care Essentials
Fittonia ‘White Anne’ thrives in bright, indirect light, similar to its natural rainforest habitat. Direct midday sun can scorch its leaves, causing browning, while insufficient light may lead to loss of vibrant color and leggy growth. Placing it a few feet from an east or north-facing window, or behind a sheer curtain, provides ideal conditions. Consistent light helps maintain its intricate vein patterns.
Watering Fittonia ‘White Anne’ requires consistently moist, but not soggy, soil. The plant wilts dramatically when thirsty, with leaves visibly drooping. It revives quickly after thorough watering. Allow the top inch or quarter of the soil to dry slightly before rewatering to prevent root rot.
High humidity is important for Fittonia ‘White Anne’. Ideal levels are between 50% and 70%. To increase humidity, place the pot on a pebble tray filled with water, group it with other plants, or use a room humidifier. Avoid placement near drafty windows, heating vents, or air conditioners to maintain stable humidity.
A well-draining, peat-based potting mix with high organic content is suitable. A mix incorporating peat moss, perlite, and potting soil retains moisture while ensuring proper drainage. An ideal soil pH is slightly acidic, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0.
During the growing season (spring and summer), fertilize Fittonia ‘White Anne’ with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Dilute the fertilizer to half-strength to prevent overfeeding and leaf burn. Fertilize once a month or every two to four weeks.
Fittonia ‘White Anne’ prefers warm indoor temperatures, between 65°F and 80°F (18°C and 27°C). It is sensitive to cold drafts and sudden temperature changes, which can cause stress and wilting. Keep the plant away from extreme heat or freezing temperatures.
Troubleshooting Common Fittonia White Anne Problems
Wilting or drooping leaves often signal that Fittonia ‘White Anne’ needs water; the plant typically revives quickly after watering. However, persistent wilting can also indicate overwatering, especially if the soil remains soggy, which can lead to root rot. Check soil moisture before watering to differentiate.
Crispy or brown leaf edges often point to insufficient humidity. This occurs when the air is too dry for the plant. Increasing ambient humidity through misting, pebble trays, or humidifiers can help.
Yellowing leaves are a symptom of overwatering or poor drainage. Ensure the pot has drainage holes and allow excess water to drain. Yellowing can also suggest nutrient deficiencies or too little light, which may affect older leaves.
Fittonia ‘White Anne’ can attract common houseplant pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and fungus gnats. Spider mites thrive in dry conditions, while fungus gnats often indicate overwatered soil. Regularly inspect the plant and wipe leaves with a damp cloth to detect and manage infestations.
Propagating Fittonia White Anne
Propagating Fittonia ‘White Anne’ is straightforward, done through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem with at least two to three nodes, which are points where leaves or roots can emerge. Remove any leaves from the bottom half of the cutting to expose the nodes.
Cuttings can be rooted in water or directly in moist soil. For water rooting, place the cutting in a clear container, ensuring nodes are submerged, and change the water every few days. For soil rooting, plant the cutting in a small pot with well-draining potting mix, keeping the soil consistently moist.
Regardless of the method, provide a warm, humid environment with indirect sunlight for successful rooting. Roots form within a few weeks to a couple of months. Once established, the new plant can be transplanted into a larger pot.