Quackin Grass Nursery

Nepenthes alata – The Winged Pitcher Plant is a fascinating insectivore. Dangling pitchers in green and maroon hang from wiry "stems" which unfurl from leaf tips. Thickened leaves are semi-glossed tongues in a shade of medium green. N. alata originates in the Philippines where it is found on every major island in the archipelago. Endlessly cool and fascinating the Swamp Pitcher Plant is this year's recipient of the Angry Red Plant Merit Award. This actually makes an unusual house plant in a hanging basket. It is glorious in a collection in the home greenhouse, the conservatory and should be part of every insectivore collection in a botanic garden. And this may be just the plant through its fantastical presence that inspires love in the cresset of a youngster's heart as they are drawn over the threshold into the miraculous green realm. Tropical in nature Nepenthes should experience night time temperatures no lower than 50F with the lower 60s very acceptable. Dappled to indirect light is best. Winter sun is fine. Pitchers should retain about ½ inch of water. Chlorinated water sources may be detrimental and purer water such as well-sourced or rainwater is advised. Coarse sphagnum peat which is kept constantly damp is an appropriate planting medium. One-quarter strength organic fertilizers such as fish emulsion and the like at one-quarter strength will be beneficial occasionally. Avoid chemical fertilizers which are salt-based. Nepenthes alata tolerates well the arid atmosphere in a home but will revel in a humid environment. Site it in diffused light though it revels in winter sun as proven to us as ours set in a south facing window in our office. Pot grown meristem cutting.