Fittonia pink Forest Flame Ø7cm H10cm

Description

Fittonia pink Forest Flame, commonly known as the “Pink Nerve Plant,” is a striking variety of Fittonia known for its vibrant, pink-veined leaves that create a dramatic contrast against the deep green foliage. The pink veins form intricate patterns across the leaves, giving this plant a fiery and bold appearance. Native to the tropical rainforests of South America, this plant thrives in high humidity and moderate light, making it an excellent choice for terrariums, small indoor gardens, or as a decorative accent for indoor spaces.

• Full Botanical Name: Fittonia pink Forest Flame
• Common Names: Pink Nerve Plant, Forest Flame Fittonia
• Country and/or Region of Origin: Native to the tropical rainforests of South America
• Growing Conditions in Native Habitat: Grows in shaded, humid environments in tropical rainforests, with well-drained, organic soils and moderate to low light levels
• Care Guide:
• Light: Prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light levels. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the delicate leaves. The vibrant pink veins are more prominent with brighter, indirect light.
• Ideal Room: Ideal for living rooms, bathrooms, kitchens, or bedrooms with moderate light and high humidity. It also thrives in terrariums or as part of small plant arrangements.
• Feeding: Fertilize once every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring to summer) with a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer to promote healthy growth and vibrant foliage.
• Humidity: Prefers high humidity and should be misted regularly or placed on a humidity tray to help maintain moisture levels in the air. It thrives in humid environments such as bathrooms or kitchens.
• Ideal Temperature: Best kept between 65°F and 75°F (18°C to 24°C). Protect from temperatures below 50°F (10°C), as it is sensitive to the cold and frost.
• Watering: Water when the top inch of soil is dry. Fittonia requires evenly moist soil but is prone to root rot if overwatered, so ensure the soil drains well and avoid letting the plant sit in water.
• Pet/Child Safe: Non-toxic to pets and children, making it a safe plant for households with animals or young children.
• Soil Type: Use a well-draining, rich potting mix. A mix formulated for houseplants or tropical plants works well, and adding perlite or orchid bark can improve drainage.
• Propagation: Propagate by stem cuttings. Cut a healthy segment of the stem, ensuring it has a few leaves, and root it in water or soil. Once the roots have developed, transfer it into a new pot.
• Eventual Height and Spread: Typically grows up to 6-12 inches (15-30 cm) tall and spreads 12-18 inches (30-45 cm), making it perfect for small pots, terrariums, or ground cover in mixed plant displays.
• Growth Rate: Moderate-growing. Fittonia pink Forest Flame will grow steadily during the growing season, producing new leaves and spreading out over time, particularly in the right conditions.
• Pests and Treatment: Generally resistant to pests but may occasionally attract mealybugs, aphids, or spider mites. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent damage.
• Repotting: Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one to allow healthy root growth, and ensure it has good drainage to avoid water retention.
• Pruning: Prune regularly to remove dead or yellowing leaves, and trim back leggy growth to encourage a bushier, fuller appearance.
• Air Purification: While not specifically known for air-purifying qualities, Fittonia pink Forest Flame contributes to a fresh and vibrant atmosphere in your home with its colorful leaves and cascading growth habit.
• Folklore: Like many tropical plants, Fittonia is associated with beauty and resilience. Some cultures believe that the intricate patterns on its leaves symbolize balance and harmony, bringing positive energy into the home.