A Gardeners Forum Forums Gardening Reference Gardening in 2007 Pitcher Plant

Hello everyone.

About four weeks ago, my dad got a pitcher plant from a friend of his. I've no idea what species it is though. But, it is fairly small, with leaves of about 7cm in length, and pitchers of not more than an inch in height.

So far, one pitcher has formed, and its lid just opened two days ago. One question though, as I'm still very new in caring and growing pitcher plants. Pitchers have liquid in them, right? But, is the liquid supplied naturally by the plant, or do I have to add some water into the pitchers? Cos, in nature, perhaps the pitchers would be filled by rainwater.

It's naturally supplied by the plant and contains enzymes to break down insects. Sounds like you have a Nepenthes. Bright light and use only distilled water or rainwater on it. DO NOT FEED. During the growing season you can lightly spray a 1/4 strength fertilizer on it's leaves only, say once every month. Outside give it bright light, morning sun only.

Tom

If there is no water in the pitchers then you can add a little bit if you must, but I dont do that with mine. If you post a picture I might be able to identify it for you. Im pretty good with these carnivorous plants. Its always best to know exactly what you have so you dont kill it. Different pitcher plants have different needs. Try and give it high humidty too, like 60-70%.

Thanks for the info, Tom and carnivorousplantgrower.

Here are the photos of my pitcher plant:

http://picasaweb.google.com/Hafizah287/Plants

Photos 6, 7 and 8.

Hm.. What Nepenthes species is it?

Hard to tell. It may be a hybrid. I think it might be nepenthes gracilis or possibly alata. I belong to a forum specializing in carnivorous plants so Ill ask their opinion, theyre probably better at this than I am.

Ok Im modifying this and now Im leaning more towards tobaica or spathulata.

Asked the people at the carnivorous plant forum and we agree on that it is probably nepenthes gracilis. It likes bright light and humidty. With bright light it will have more color but high humidity isnt a must. It is easy to grow and rather fast growing. Research it on the internet to learn more.

Thanks for the info, carnivorousplantgrower. Yup, I do think as well that it is Nepenthes gracilis. I think, both bright light and humidity can be taken care of easily for it. Here, in Brunei, atmospheric humidity is rather high, and we have sunshine all year round.

Glad I could help! Sounds like it will grow quite nice in your area!