Fittonia | Nerve Plant | Hypoestes

Native to the jungles of Peru, Sarah May loves humidity and moisture so I recommend keeping her soil fairly damp – the best way to do this is by regular misting.  Keep her somewhere nice and warm but not with direct sunlight as that can burn her leaves.       

She’s a trailing houseplant meaning she won’t get particularly tall but may spread out up to around 12 inches (don’t worry, she’s unlikely to take over the bookcase within a few months). It’s easy to take cuttings from her and propagate so get ready for some plant babies!     

ll of the houseplants in my shop are named after an inspiring woman.  This time, it’s Sarah May Fitton, along with her sister Elizabeth discovered this beautiful plant as they smashed the male dominated world of botanical writing in the 1800’s – which I think is pretty bloody good.        

 Good news!  Fittonias are widely considered to be non-toxic to pets.  Try to keep out of reach though, in case your fluffy friend takes a liking to her.