Mutant Fittonia

An unsual twist on our classic Fittonia, these mutants have grown with massive leaves, unusual flowers, and often, a rainbow mix of colors. 

Normally grown as a houseplant, nerve plant (Fittonia spp.) is a spreading evergreen perennial with delicately veined, deep-green leaves. Although the most popular vein color is silvery-white, you can also readily find varieties with veins in red, pink, white, and green. Fittonia are a low-growing creeper that is a perfect fit for terrariums. 

Fittonia typically grows to a height of 7 to 14 centimeters with a trailing spread of 30+ inches. Although the plant rarely flowers when grown as an indoor houseplant, it does occasionally bloom with insignificant reddish or yellowish-white spikes.

As beautiful as it is, Fittonia is somewhat temperamental and tricky to grow as a houseplant. It requires very high, constant humidity, such as found in a terrarium, and cannot tolerate stagnant conditions. Nerve plant is also sensitive to strong, direct sunlight and will quickly suffer from leaf burn

PLANT CARE

• Light: Low to bright, indirect light
• Water: Prefers moist soil in a free-draining potting mix, but not too wet. Water when the top layer dries out
• Considerations: As with any tropical house plant, fittonia will flourish in a humid environment

WHAT TO EXPECT

You'll get a healthy fittonia that meets our rigorous quality standards in a 10cm nursery pot, other planters are sold separately. No two plants are alike, and yours will have its own unique shape, size, and personality; expect this natural variation from the photos.

Mutant Fittonia: A Stunning and Low-Maintenance Houseplant

The Mutant Fittonia, often known as the nerve plant, is a strikingly beautiful houseplant that is sure to be a standout in any space. Known for its vibrant and contrasting veins that run through its leaves, the Mutant Fittonia offers a unique touch of nature indoors. It’s part of the Fittonia genus, but its distinctive leaf pattern and coloration set it apart from other varieties, making it a popular choice for plant enthusiasts who appreciate both beauty and ease of care.

Whether you're a seasoned plant lover or a beginner looking for a low-maintenance addition to your indoor garden, the Mutant Fittonia is the perfect plant. With its colorful veins and compact growth, it can thrive in various environments, making it a great choice for apartments, offices, or any indoor space that could use a pop of color.

Key Features of the Mutant Fittonia

The Mutant Fittonia is not only visually appealing but also relatively easy to care for. Here’s why it’s a great choice for indoor gardening:

1. Vibrant Leaf Colors and Patterns

The Mutant Fittonia stands out with its beautiful leaves, which feature bold, contrasting veins. The veins often appear in shades of pink, white, or red against the dark green of the leaves. This eye-catching pattern gives the plant a unique, ornamental appeal, making it a wonderful decorative piece in any room. The vibrant colors are especially striking in the right lighting, which brings out the full beauty of this plant.

2. Compact Growth Habit

The Mutant Fittonia is a compact and low-growing plant, making it perfect for small spaces. It typically reaches around 6-10 inches in height, which makes it an ideal choice for tabletop displays or hanging baskets. Its small size and trailing growth pattern also allow it to be placed in terrariums, creating an elegant and lush atmosphere in your indoor garden.

3. Easy-to-Care-For

One of the reasons the Mutant Fittonia is a favorite among both beginners and experienced plant owners is its relatively low-maintenance care. While it thrives in a humid environment, it doesn’t require constant attention. As long as it is kept in indirect light and its soil is kept consistently moist (but not soggy), it will flourish. The plant thrives in temperatures of 60-85°F (15-29°C) and doesn’t need to be watered too frequently. Simply ensure it gets enough water to keep the soil lightly moist, and the plant will reward you with vibrant, healthy growth.

4. Tolerant of Low Light

While the Mutant Fittonia does best in indirect light, it can tolerate low light conditions, making it an excellent plant for areas of your home or office that don’t receive a lot of natural sunlight. However, too much direct sunlight can scorch its leaves, so it’s best to place it in a bright room with plenty of filtered or indirect light.

5. Ideal for Indoor Spaces

The Mutant Fittonia is perfect for growing indoors. Whether in a bright living room, on a desk in the office, or in a cozy corner of the bedroom, this plant thrives indoors, adding vibrant color to any environment. It also works wonderfully in terrariums or as part of an indoor garden collection, where the high humidity of the enclosed space can help keep it healthy.

6. Non-Toxic to Pets

For pet owners, the Mutant Fittonia is a great choice, as it is non-toxic to cats and dogs. This makes it a safe addition to homes with pets, providing peace of mind that your furry friends can explore the plant without risk.

Benefits of the Mutant Fittonia

The Mutant Fittonia offers several benefits that make it an excellent choice for any plant lover:

1. Aesthetic Appeal

The vibrant colors and intricate patterns of the Mutant Fittonia create an elegant and dynamic visual element in any room. It’s a great way to add interest and color to your home decor. The plant's stunning appearance makes it an eye-catching feature on a shelf, coffee table, or even as part of a collection of houseplants.

2. Low Maintenance Care

While some plants require constant attention, the Mutant Fittonia is easy to care for. It doesn't require frequent repotting or complicated care routines. As long as it’s provided with consistent moisture, indirect light, and the occasional cleaning of its leaves, it will thrive and remain a lovely addition to your space.

3. Improved Indoor Air Quality

Like many houseplants, the Mutant Fittonia can contribute to a healthier indoor environment by improving air quality. Plants naturally help purify the air by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. Additionally, they can increase humidity in a room, which can be beneficial in dry climates or during the colder months.

4. Versatile for Various Settings

The Mutant Fittonia works well in a wide range of indoor settings. Whether you want to place it in a decorative pot as a centerpiece, in a hanging planter to cascade down, or in a terrarium to create a small jungle, this plant adds an attractive and versatile option to any space.

How to Care for the Mutant Fittonia

The Mutant Fittonia is relatively easy to care for, but it does require some attention to ensure it thrives:

1. Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Water the plant when the top layer of soil feels dry to the touch. Be careful not to overwater, as Fittonia plants are sensitive to root rot. If you notice the leaves drooping or wilting, it's a sign that the plant needs water.
   
2. Light: Place your Mutant Fittonia in a location with bright, indirect light. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, as the leaves may scorch. If the plant's colors become dull, it may need more light.
   
3. Humidity: The Mutant Fittonia thrives in a humid environment. If you live in a dry climate, consider misting the plant regularly or placing it in a bathroom or kitchen where there’s naturally more humidity.
   
4. Temperature: Keep the plant in temperatures between 60-85°F (15-29°C). Avoid cold drafts or sudden temperature changes, which could stress the plant.
   
5. Fertilizing: Feed the Mutant Fittonia with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). In fall and winter, you can reduce fertilization as the plant’s growth slows down.
   
6. Pruning: If the plant becomes leggy or overgrown, you can prune it to maintain a compact shape. Remove any dead or yellowing leaves to encourage new growth.
   

Why Choose the Mutant Fittonia?

The Mutant Fittonia is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a unique, low-maintenance houseplant with beautiful color and texture. Its vibrant foliage and adaptability to indoor environments make it an ideal addition to your home. The plant's small size, ease of care, and stunning appearance ensure that it will fit perfectly into your living space, whether it’s on your desk, shelf, or windowsill.

Conclusion

The Mutant Fittonia is the perfect houseplant for anyone who loves beautiful, low-maintenance greenery. Its colorful, veined leaves and compact size make it an eye-catching addition to any space, while its easy care requirements make it ideal for beginners and busy plant lovers alike. Whether you’re looking to add some greenery to your home or improve your indoor air quality, the Mutant Fittonia is a fantastic plant to have in your collection.