Fittonia verschaffeltii – Red (5cm Pot) Care Guide

Fittonia verschaffeltii, commonly known as Red Nerve Plant, is a stunning indoor plant known for its vibrant red veins running through deep green leaves. This striking foliage plant adds a pop of color and texture to any aquascape or terrarium. Here’s a concise care guide for this plant:

Care Requirements

• Tank Size: Suitable for small to medium aquariums or terrariums. A 10-gallon tank or larger is ideal for aquarium use.
• Lighting: Moderate to bright; Fittonia prefers bright, indirect light. Too much direct light can scorch its leaves, while too little light can cause the plant to become leggy and lose its vibrant coloration.
• Temperature: 20–28°C (68–82°F); thrives in warm, tropical conditions.
• pH Range: 6.0–7.5; prefers slightly acidic to neutral water.
• Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (4–12 dGH).
• Substrate: Prefers a nutrient-rich substrate. It can be kept in well-draining aquarium soil or substrate, but it can also do well in a hydroponic setup or with moisture-retaining materials.
• Growth Rate: Moderate; this plant grows steadily but does not spread as aggressively as some other plants, making it a good choice for small aquascapes.
• CO2 Requirement: Optional; Fittonia does well in an aquarium with or without CO2 supplementation. However, CO2 can promote better overall health and growth.

Key Tips

• Pruning: Prune occasionally to remove leggy growth or any damaged leaves. This will encourage the plant to branch out and maintain its compact shape.
• Fertilization: Use a balanced liquid fertilizer with micronutrients to keep the plant healthy. Fertilize once a week or as needed, especially during the growing season.
• Water Flow: Prefers low to moderate water flow. Too strong of a current can damage its delicate leaves.
• Humidity: Fittonia thrives in humid conditions, making it a great choice for terrariums or aquariums with high humidity.
• Placement: Best suited for midground to foreground placement in aquascapes or terrariums. It can also be kept in smaller tanks or pots on its own as a decorative accent.
• Propagation: Fittonia can be propagated through cuttings. Snip healthy stems with a few leaves and place them in a moist environment until they develop roots.

Fittonia verschaffeltii – Red is a beautiful and relatively low-maintenance plant, perfect for brightening up any tank, aquascape, or terrarium with its vibrant red-veined foliage. It thrives in warm, humid environments, so make sure to provide it with the right conditions for the best results. With proper care, it will reward you with its stunning colors and unique appearance.