A tropical carnivorous plant whose leaf tips extend into dangling lidded pitchers that fill with fluid to trap insects. Spectacular cascading from a hanging basket in a warm, humid, brightly lit spot.
At a glance
- Plant type: Perennial
- Mature size: 50 cm H × 50 cm W
- Aspect: part shade or morning sun
- Water: consistently moist soil
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: high maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Tropical Pitcher Plant
Botanically, Nepenthes alata is a moderate-growing perennial in the Nepenthaceae family. It reaches around 50 cm tall and 50 cm wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. Yellow flowers appear for much of the year.
Where to grow Tropical Pitcher Plant
Tropical Pitcher Plant suits tropical and subtropical climates and grows best in part shade or morning sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot. It also is a sought-after collector's plant.
Soil & planting
Tropical Pitcher Plant does best in acidic and free-draining soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Tropical Pitcher Plant is consistently moist soil. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Tropical Pitcher Plant after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is high maintenance.
Using Tropical Pitcher Plant in the garden
Tropical Pitcher Plant earns its place for hanging baskets, a feature or specimen planting and pots and courtyard containers. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Tropical Pitcher Plant with other plants that enjoy the same consistently moist soil and tropical climate. Repeat it through a border to tie the planting together and give a sense of rhythm.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Tropical Pitcher Plant
Plant Sale lists Tropical Pitcher Plant as potted plants. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment we have it ready.