The Pitcher Plant, or Nepenthes, grows naturally in the tropical regions of Asia, predominantly Thailand, Malaysia, Philippines, Indonesia, Singapore, and New Guinea. They occur in a variety of habitats, from the cool misty rainforests high in the mountains to the warm open grasslands at the foot of the mountains.
Nepenthes Care:
Sun: Nepenthes generally like bright light without much direct sun.
Water: Do not allow Nepenthes to dry out completely. They benefit from moist media and occasional flooding to wash away any accumulated salts. Use relatively clean water such as rain, distilled or purified water. Tap water can be used in many localities if the water is low in salts. Low level chlorine does not seem to be a problem.
Humidity: While Nepenthes often tolerate low humidity, they usually stop making pitchers. Humid environments such as greenhouses, terrariums or even tents made from sticks and clear plastic bags can provide the needed humidity. Be sure to provide some ventilation to prevent overheating and stagnant air. Many people put their plants outdoors during warm, humid weather. Some shade must be provided and bring the plant(s) indoors before temperatures drop below 10°C.
Temperature: Most types of Nepenthes thrive at temperatures between 15-30°C.
Feeding: If you are growing the plant where it cannot catch insects for long periods, you can add an occasional small insect such as a fly, or a few very small insects to mature pitchers. This is not normally needed.
General: After situating the plant where it is to grow, add a little water to the pitchers, about 1/2- 3/4 inch. Pitchers and leaves die naturally as the plant grows and these should be trimmed off for best culture. Since many Nepenthes are vines, we suggest pruning the green stems back to encourage side shoots and a fuller plant. The vines can also be trained up a stake or left to hang low in an elevated container such as a hanging basket. Allowing the vines to descend often encourages the plant to put up new basal shoots, resulting in a prettier plant. It is best not to prune more than 30% of the foliage off the plant at any one time. If the plant fails to make pitchers, increase humidity. Some growers mist their plants with pure water but we do not advise this as it can encourage leaf spotting or diseases. Adding air to the water can help growth by reducing the chance of stagnation. Simply put the water in a clean tightly-covered container, half-filled, and shake it vigorously to aerate it before watering. Avoid dripping cold water on the leaves. Nepenthes can live for many years with proper care.
Length: 40cm
Supplied individually in 14cm hanging basket pot