Lovers Snakeskin Plant

Lovers Snakeskin Plant (Fittonia 'Lovers') is a tiny, low, spreading foliage plant about 10cm high and up to 50cm wide. A fine white network of veins crosses apple-lime green leaves, giving a light, fresh look. It suits terrariums, hanging pots and indoor gardens, and shady borders in tropical gardens.

Why you'll love it

• A white mosaic on apple green. The pale network of veins gives each leaf a delicate, lace-like pattern.
• Spreads without taking over. A low, spreading habit fills a shallow bowl or hanging pot at 10cm tall.
• Right for terrariums. It is neatly sized for glass gardens and for hanging planters.
• Loves a bathroom. It likes warm, humid, bright conditions, but not hot sun, so a bathroom with a window is ideal.
• Pet friendly. Snakeskin plants are generally regarded as non-toxic to cats and dogs.

Where it works best

Terrariums and hanging pots. Its trailing, spreading habit softens the edge of a hanging pot or fills a terrarium floor.

Bathrooms and bright shelves. Give it filtered light, a little humidity and a spot out of direct sun.

Shady borders in tropical gardens. Plant 30cm apart beneath shrubs, where filtered sunshine keeps the white veining crisp.

Growing Lovers Snakeskin Plant in Australia

Position and climate. Plant in indirect or filtered sunlight to retain leaf colour. It likes it warm, humid and bright, but not in hot sun, and it needs 15°C or above. Outdoors it suits frost-free tropical and subtropical gardens, and elsewhere it is a houseplant.

Soil. A moisture-retaining soil or a good quality potting mix suits it.

Water and feed. Water regularly for the first 12 weeks and regularly once established. Mist if the air is dry, and let it dry out a little between waterings. If it wilts, a good soak revives it. Feed every three months with a slow release nitrogen-rich fertiliser.

Pruning. No pruning is needed. Pick off any old leaves to keep it tidy.

What to expect when it arrives

We sell Lovers Snakeskin Plant as tube stock, a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly. It arrives as a very small plant that fits a terrarium or a small pot straight away. Keep it warm and out of direct sun, and it will start to spread as it settles.

Because Lovers Snakeskin Plant tube stock comes from our grower, it is not always available, and the tube shows as sold out whenever the grower has none. The notify button on the page emails you the day it is back. 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 and nerve plants
• House and indoor plants
• Plants for partial shade
• Indoor plant tips for beginners

Common questions

How big does Lovers grow?

About 10cm high, spreading up to 50cm wide. Plant 30cm apart if you want it to knit together as a groundcover.

Is it safe for cats and dogs?

Snakeskin plants are generally regarded as non-toxic to cats and dogs, which makes it an easy houseplant for a home with animals.

What light does it want?

Bright, filtered light without hot sun. Direct sun can fade the leaf colour, so keep it out of the strongest light.