Jungle Flame Snakeskin Plant

Jungle Flame Snakeskin Plant (Fittonia albivenis 'Jungle Flame') is a tiny, clumping foliage plant only 5 to 15cm tall that spreads to about 30cm. Each deep lime-green leaf is veined in red-pink, like a small mosaic. It is made for terrariums, pots and shady spots indoors, and it works as a groundcover under shrubs in warm subtropical gardens.

Why you'll love it

• Leaves like a mosaic. Red-pink veining across deep lime green gives every leaf a pattern, and the colour holds all year.
• Tiny and tidy. It is neat and petite, so it fits a shelf, a desk, a terrarium or a small corner without crowding.
• A clumping habit. It grows as a low, compact clump rather than racing across the floor of the pot.
• Thrives without direct sun. Indirect or filtered light keeps the leaf colour strong, so it suits rooms and shaded gardens.
• Pet friendly. Snakeskin plants are generally regarded as non-toxic to cats and dogs, which makes it an easy choice for a home with animals.

Where it works best

Terrariums and bottle gardens. Humid, enclosed glass suits it, and a single plant can fill a small jar with colour.

Pots and shelves indoors. Choose a bright, indirect spot. It is perfect for a desk, bathroom shelf or any room with filtered light.

Underplanting in subtropical gardens. Plant 25cm apart beneath shrubs in a shaded, warm, moist bed, where the red-pink veining lights up the ground.

Growing Jungle Flame Snakeskin Plant in Australia

Position and climate. Plant in indirect or filtered sunlight to keep the leaf colour. It needs temperatures of 15°C or above, so outdoors it suits frost-free tropical and subtropical gardens only. In cooler regions keep it indoors or in a heated space such as a bathroom or sunroom.

Soil. It prefers moisture-retaining soil, or a good quality potting mix with plenty of organic matter. Good drainage still matters, so do not let it sit in standing water.

Water and feed. Water regularly through the first 12 weeks and keep that up once established. Let the mix dry out a little between waterings, and if the plant wilts, give it a good soak and it will recover. Mist regularly if the air is dry. Apply a slow release nitrogen-rich fertiliser every three months for healthy foliage.

Pruning. No pruning is needed. Remove old leaves for a quick tidy-up.

What to expect when it arrives

We sell Jungle Flame Snakeskin Plant as tube stock, a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly. It arrives small, which is the right size for a terrarium or a small pot, and fills out steadily as it settles into warm, humid conditions.

Plants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.

Plant care guides and related reading

• Fittonias (nerve plants)
• Low light indoor plants
• Indoor plant tips for beginners
• Pet friendly indoor plants

Common questions

Why is my snakeskin plant wilting?

It is usually thirsty. Fittonia droops dramatically when dry, so give it a good soak and it should recover within hours. If it keeps wilting in wet soil, check drainage.

Can I grow it outdoors?

Only in a warm, frost-free, shaded spot in a tropical or subtropical garden. It needs 15°C or above, so keep it indoors in cooler regions.

Does it need a terrarium?

No, but it loves the humidity of one. In an ordinary pot, mist it regularly if the air is dry and keep it out of draughts and direct sun.