Fittonia
Fittonia, also known as the nerve plant or mosaic plant, is a beautiful and versatile houseplant that adds a touch of vibrant beauty to any indoor space. This comprehensive guide explores all aspects of Fittonia care and cultivation, equipping you with the knowledge needed to nurture and appreciate this stunning plant to its fullest.
Introduction to Fittonia:
Discover the fascinating characteristics of Fittonia plants, including their origins, unique foliage patterns, and the various species and cultivars available. Gain insights into the symbolic meaning and aesthetic appeal of these beautiful plants.
Light and Temperature Requirements:
Learn about the ideal light conditions for Fittonia, balancing bright indirect light and shade. Understand the temperature preferences of this tropical plant and how to provide the optimal environment for its growth.
Watering and Humidity:
Master the art of watering Fittonia, ensuring that the soil remains consistently moist without becoming waterlogged. Explore the significance of humidity for these plants and discover techniques to maintain the ideal moisture levels.
Soil and Fertilization:
Understand the importance of well-draining soil for Fittonia and explore suitable soil mixtures for optimum growth. Learn about fertilization practices, including the types of fertilizers and feeding schedules that promote lush foliage.
Pruning and Propagation:
Discover how to prune Fittonia to maintain its compact shape and encourage bushier growth. Unlock the secrets of propagation, including stem cuttings and division, allowing you to expand your collection and share the beauty of Fittonia with others.
Pests and Diseases:
Identify common pests that may affect Fittonia plants, such as aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs, and learn how to combat them using natural or chemical methods. Familiarize yourself with common diseases and preventive measures to keep your plants healthy.
Container Selection and Display:
Explore creative container options for showcasing Fittonia’s intricate foliage patterns, from hanging baskets to terrariums and dish gardens. Unleash your imagination and create stunning displays highlighting this beautiful plant’s beauty.
Complementary Companion Plants:
Discover suitable companion plants that can be paired with Fittonia to create visually striking combinations. Explore different textures, colours, and growth habits that harmonize with the unique charm of this houseplant.
Seasonal Care:
Navigate through seasonal care considerations for Fittonia, including watering, lighting, and temperature adjustments during different times of the year. Learn how to provide the best care for your plants throughout changing seasons.
Fittonia is sure to captivate your heart and enhance the beauty of your living spaces. Discover the joy of tending to these resilient and visually stunning plants, and let their lush foliage bring life and vibrancy to your home.
Things to know about Fittonia
Common (vernacular) Name
एन्थूरियम (Hindi), Anthurium, Flamingo Lily, Flamingo Flower, Painter's Palette, Lace Leaf, Pigtail Plants, Tail Flower and many more.
Botanical Name
Anthurium Andraeanum
Origin
Mexico to Tropical America (Colombia, Ecuador).
Family
Araceae
Plant Type
Tropical plant
Plant Features
Ornamental / Evergreen / Exotic
Life Cycle
Perennial
Landscape Uses
Container Planting and Houseplants.
Species
Belolonchium, Calomystrium, Cardiolonchium, Chamaerepium, Cordatopunctatum, Dactylophyllium, Decurrentia, Digitinervium, Gymnopodium, Leptanthurium, Pachyneurium, Polyphyllium, Polyneurium, Porphyrochitonium, Schizoplacium, Semaeophyllium, Tetraspermium, Urospadix, Xialophyllium.
Varieties
It comes with thousand of different varieties in a diversity of leaf and flower colorations.
Size
Height : 1 to 1.5 feet tall and Width : 1 feet wide when mature.
Indoors or Outdoors
Outdoors : Anthurium can be used outdoors in shady plantings, avoid direct sun light.
Indoors : Excellent plant grow in bright light or indirect light. Best indoor plants for beginners.
Blooming / Flowering
Blooming period is throughout the year.
Flower Colour
It’s come with a contrasting spadix Gold, Yellow, Orange, Pink, White, Green, Purple, Red, Burgundy, Multicolored and Variegated colours.
Lucky Plant
According to Feng Shui, It bring Good Luck in your relationships.
Lighting / Sun Exposure
Bright Indirect Sunlight.
Temperature
Grow best preferably warm temperature above 21°C and can be tolerate max temp. as high as 32°C.
Growth Rate
Anthurium is a slow to moderate growers plant.
Watering
Moderate watering, Mist or over head sprinkler to provide water and to improve relative humidity. Not tolerate overwatering it may cause root damage and yellowing of the leaves.
Fertilizer
Slow-release fertilizer, or a water-soluble liquid fertilizer once or twice in the growing season (Spring through Summer).
i.e. - Cow dung, DAP, Compost, NPK 30-10-10 fertilizer, liquid organic fertilizer etc.
Pruning
Pruning of Anthurium not much is needed. However, trimming away only discolored or dead leaves.
Propagation
Seeds : The best time to sow your Anthurium seeds is in the end of Winter / early Spring but it can't can give good result.
Stem Cuttings : The easier methods of propagation of Anthurium in water or in soil via stem cuttings, and can be done during the warm growing season.
Division : Division of Anthurium can be done in Rainy season, or better in February to March.
Dormancy Period
Month : November to February (winter season)
Shed their leaves and show poor growth, Watering minimally.
Avoid : Propagate, Fertilize and Repotting.
Container
Ceramic Pot, Plastic Pot, Terracotta or Clay Pot is preferred, which ensures good drainage as well as water holding capacity.
Soil Type
A well-drained Loam / Coarse potting soil is recommended as well as water holding capacity. Prevent soggy potting medium.
Our recommendation for potting mix : Equal part mixture of Garden Soil (25%) + Compost (25%) + River Sand (25%) + Cocopeat (25%). You can substitute pieces of Charcoal, Vermicompost, Perlite etc.
Soil pH
Lightly Acidic soil - Ideally 5.5 to 6.5 pH (potential of hydrogen) is recommended for Anthurium.
Repotting
It is advisable to repot the Anthurium every year or two preferably spring to midsummer season.
Maintenance
Low maintenance and easy to grow.
Properties
Toxic or Poisonous to both humans and pets upon ingestion.
Benefits
Excellent indoor air purifier, Anthurium plants turns CO2 into oxygen. It purifies indoor air by removing harmful chemicals like ammonia, toluene, xylene and formaldehyde.
Special Features
Doesn't attract hummingbirds and pollinators like butterflies and bees or wasps.
Infestation / Pests
Aphids, Scale insects, Thrips, Mealy bugs, Spider mites and caterpillars etc.
Diseases / Problem
Physiological Problem : Anthracnose, Leaf Spot and Powdery Mildew.
Bacterial Problem : Bacterial Blight, Bacterial Wilt and Black Nose Disease.
Fungal Problems : Root Rot and Water Mold.
Some Glimpse of Fittonia
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