Nepenthes

Nepenthes (Monkey Cup Plant)

Nepenthes lures its prey (insects) with a delicious nectar scent. Because Nepenthes eats insects, it is a carnivorous plant species. At the top of the inside of Monkey cup plant’s leaf is a smooth edge. The function of the smooth edge is that an insect has no grip and therefore slides into the cup. Inside the cup itself are sturdy hairs that are pointed downwards. The purpose of these hairs is to prevent the prey from escaping. At the bottom of the cup of the Nepenthes is a viscous liquid full of digestive juices (enzymes). The digestive juices are produced by glands located on that inside of the cup. Some cups of nepenthes species can grow up to 50cm tall!

The Nepenthes can be found in different parts of the world and is mostly found in Southeast Asia (Borneo). In addition, the plant species can be found in Sri Lanka, Madagascar and Seychelles. Due to its carnivorous properties, Nepenthes is able to live on nutrient-poor soil. The catching cups can be low on the ground or, on the contrary, hang high in a tree. Most Nepenthes grow in tropical slope forests. These forests have large temperature differences. However, there are also Monkey cup plants that grow in the wet lowlands. In the lowlands, it is warm both day and night. There are also Nepenthes plants that can be found at altitudes of up to 3,000 metres. These are ‘highland’ Nepenthes.

A climbing Nepenthes in nature can grow up to 15 metres tall. Nepenthes likes sun very much. However, it is important that the plant is not in direct sunlight. In addition, the pitcher plant likes humidity. The Nepenthes plant can also grow beautiful yellow / brown flowers in the form of clusters. The plant can be kept in both a hanging pot and an upright pot. However, it is important that the plant has space. Unlike the Venus flytrap and the Trumpet pitcher plant, Nepenthes does not need to hibernate. Click here for more information about growing Nepenthes.