Unique Nepenthes Species with Red Pitchers

Nepenthes sanguinea (from Latin sanguineus "blood red") is a large and robust pitcher plant from the Malay Peninsula and southern Thailand, where it grows at altitudes of 300-1800 meters. The species primarily grows terrestrially but can grow epiphytically in wet upper montane forests.

The pitchers vary in size, 10-30 centimeters tall, and range from green and yellow to orange and red. The insides of the pitchers are usually mottled with these two main colors. The elegant pitchers appear to glow from within and come in many different colors, a truly underrated species!

The plant was introduced into cultivation as early as 1847 by plant hunter Thomas Lobb via Veitch Nurseries and has been popular in greenhouses since Victorian times, where the pitchers hung from the rafters.

Care

This highland species can be grown on a bright windowsill or in partially shaded outdoor areas, as well as in a terrarium provided it is large enough. Frost easily kills the plant.

Thrives in bright, indirect light. Use substrate mix: 50% long-fiber sphagnum, 50% perlite and coco chips. Keep always moist.

Ideal temperature 18-26°C. Requires high humidity (60-80%).