Fittonia

Fittonia is a genus of evergreen perennial flowering plants in the family Acanthaceae.

Fittonia is a genus of evergreen perennial flowering plants in the family Acanthaceae. It is native to tropical and subtropical forested areas of northern and western South America, especially Peru, and is widely grown as an ornamental houseplant for its prominently veined leaves.

Taxonomy and naming

Fittonia is a genus of flowering plants in the family Acanthaceae. The genus name honours Elizabeth and Sarah Fitton, Irish botanists and authors who helped popularize botany through their writing.

Description

Fittonia species are low-growing, creeping or trailing plants with oval leaves and highly visible veins. The foliage may be marked in white, pink, or red, which is the main ornamental feature of the genus.

Distribution and habitat

Fittonia is native to humid tropical and subtropical forest regions of northern and western South America, particularly Peru. In the wild it grows as understorey vegetation in shaded forest conditions.

Cultivation

Fittonia is widely cultivated as an indoor plant because of its compact size and colourful leaves. It is often grown in pots, terrariums, and other humid indoor environments. In Canada, it is a popular ornamental houseplant for indoor gardening, terrariums, and humid apartment environments.