Thanks!
~Zen

Yes, that is a Fittonia, a lower light plant that likes high humidity. I've grown it successfully in a bathroom window behind frosted glass or in a terrarium kept on the edge of a window. I find them very pretty.

When I moved into this apartment (23 yrs. ago) I carried in my arms a large terrarium of this very Fittonia. The moving driver offered me money for it. I had it for some time, very nice plants.

Other than wanting the high humidity they're pretty carefree. They do benefit from being pinched back frequently (after 2nd or 3rd pair of leaves). Enjoy.

Your plant is Fittonia argyoneura...common name, Silver Nerve Plant.

Although Fittonias are sometimes grown as a house plants, they're mainly sold as outdoor, annual, Accent Plants and ground covers.

Since you mentioned you were new growing house plants, 'and I wish you the best of luck,' Fittonia's are somewhat fussy.

As Karen stated, she grew hers in a terrarium.

Fittonias are humidity-lovers, but fresh air is important, too. If you decide to place yours in a terrarium, ventilation is needed. Fresh air. Soil should be kept moderately moist, but not soggy. Pinch the top two to four leaves every other month so it doesn't get spindly.

I hope your Fittonia lives forever, but if by chance you lose it, don't be discouraged. Toni

The fittonia was in sad shape when I got it. It had many brown leaves and the pot had a huge crack in it. It seems to be doing well since I got it home but I'm wary of how it will fare during a pacific northwest winter.

If you're nervous about it going into the Winter, perhaps from the pinching back you'll do going in the Fall, you could likely re-start the tip pinchings in some perlite kept moist & covered, that way you could start more plants.