Nepenthes

The Pitcher Plants

Widely called ‘pitcher plants’, Nepenthes are but one of the carnivorous plants that take this common name. Plants from species such as Darlingtonia, Sarracenia and at least one Australian species, Cephalotus follicularis are also represented,  grown not only for fun,  but also as a fascinating hobby for collectors.

If you are growing these plants indoors, both Nepenthes and venus flytrap are good for many insects. However for house flys, and fungus gnats try sundews.

Nepenthes are the largest genus and most are the climbing or ‘hanging’ pitcher plants (see picture right) mainly from South East Asia including islands such as Borneo, some are from Northern Queensland.

Species include plants such as Nepenthes attenboroughii, N. ventricosa and N. mirabilis, some of the best known of what we commonly refer to as ‘pitcher plants’. Today many of these are sourced from tissue culture laboratories.

These carnivorous plants are popular with collectors and gardeners alike. Nepenthes truncata is originally from the Philippines, fairly easy to grow and a real eyecatcher.

Nepenthes rajah is an example of a highland species, these generally require cool night time conditions and warm days, conditions that are not easy to replicate. Valued for its large pitcher and huge lid, well worth a try if you have a greenhouse or live in the mountains in QLD.

How to grow Pitcher Plants.

Growing conditions for Pitcher Plants vary greatly depending on species, some are easy care, other require very specific conditions. Be sure to get a fact sheet that is relevant for your specific type.

Light, Moisture, Temperature and Humidity are the main factors and these do vary according to species. The growing medium and the fertiliser or nutrients supplied are also important factors.

Light Requirements

Nepenthes grow best in bright, filtered light. Direct midday sun can scorch leaves, particularly in hot climates, while low light levels often result in poor pitcher development.

Light influences the size and colour of the Pitcher itself, a general rule is around 50% shade cloth, although in some climates, 80% may be required. The length of daylight hours will also influence growth, short daylight hours will lead to slower or stunted growth.

Indoor plants perform well near a bright window or under grow lights.

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Watering Nepenthes

Water quality is critical for healthy Nepenthes growth. In general all varieties require watering on a regular basis, they do like a well drained environment, but do not like to dry out. It is best to use rainwater, tap water should be allowed to stand for 12 hours and also allowed to increase in temperature to room temp.

• Use rainwater, distilled water, or reverse-osmosis water only
• Keep the growing medium evenly moist
• Do not allow plants to sit in standing water for extended periods

Mineral-rich tap water can cause salt buildup and long-term damage.

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Humidity

All species and cultivars perform better in a humid environment. However poor air flow and high humidity can lead to fungal problems. Moist growing medium is often enough with occasional mist spraying during the warmer months.

• Aim for humidity above 50%
• Greenhouses, shade houses, or humid indoor environments are ideal
• Misting can help but should not replace proper ambient humidity

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Temperature

Temperature needs depend on plant type:

• Lowland Nepenthes prefer consistently warm conditions day and night
• Highland Nepenthes require warm days and noticeably cooler nights

Hybrid varieties are generally more adaptable and suitable for a wider range of climates.
Long cold periods are not suitable, although these are a generally adaptable plant. Try for 15C to 30C daytime temps, 10c – 15c nighttime.

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Soil and Potting Mix

Nepenthes require a free-draining, low-nutrient growing medium.

Common components include:

• Sphagnum moss
• Orchid bark
• Perlite

Standard potting soil is unsuitable and may cause root damage.

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Feeding and Fertiliser

Nepenthes naturally obtain nutrients by trapping insects and this is generally enough. Do not feed pitcher plants meat or similar.

• Outdoor plants usually feed themselves
• Indoor plants do not require manual feeding
• Fertilisers should generally be avoided

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Common Nepenthes Problems

No pitchers forming
Usually caused by low humidity or insufficient light.

Pitchers turning black
Normal aging is expected, but widespread blackening may indicate poor water quality.

Slow or weak growth
Often related to unsuitable temperature, low light, or mineral buildup.

Nepenthe Varieties

• Nepenthe truncata – This is a very large growing species with the ‘Pitcher’ reaching 30 – 50 cm in length. Green pitcher and ochre/red lips. Best grown in warm climates with high humidity. One for the tropics unless you have a greenhouse. Two forms are available, a highland form and a lowland form.
  The highland form copes with cooler temperatures and less humidity. Lowland forms are best in a temperature range from 27C to 35C with a night temperature of 15C.

The easiest Nepenthes to grow are the hybrids rather than the species. Species that are highland types require less warmth as well. Try those from the list below.

• N. × cincta
• Nepenthes Miranda (Maxima x Northiana)
• Nepenthes x St. Gaya
• N. x ventrata, N. “Red Leopard”

Propagation, Seeds, Hybrids and Cuttings

Nepenthes can be grown from cuttings, tissue culture or from seed, many hybrids are now becoming available some with huge pitchers. Nepenthes lowii, sumatrana, belli and burbidgeae are all popular candidates for hybridisation.

Nepenthes and Sarracenia – Differences

Nepenthes really tropical plant so temperatures of 18C (64f) or higher is needed for good growth, they also need filtered light rather than direct sun. .For cooler climates try Sarracenia they can handle temperatures as low as -5C. They also grow well in full sun.

Nepenthes and other Pitcher Plants are available for sale from the following nurseries

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