Family: Nepenthaceae
Common Name: Winged Pitcher Plant
Botanical Name: Nepenthes alata (Winged Pitcher Plant)
Looking for an extraordinary plant? Introducing the Nepenthes Alata, also known as the Winged Pitcher Plant. This plant has long leaves that are called “pitchers”. Although dependent on the maturity of your individual plant, generally, the pitchers size will vary from a few centimeters to over 30 centimeters lengthwise. Your Winged Pitcher Plants colors could be either green, yellow or red, OR all of those colors combined.
Light
Give your Winged Pitcher Plant the proper lighting requirements by providing it with bright, indirect light. Since they are originally from tropical environments, bright and indirect light replicates their natural environment. Do not allow your plant to be exposed to direct sun - this could lead to the leaves on your plant to burn. Use an artificial light as necessary, if you are growing your Winged Pitcher Plant indoors.
Water
Winged Pitcher Plant prefer water that is purified, as oppose to tap water since your plant is sensitive to chlorine and fluoride, which tap water contains. Tap water should be avoided at all costs, unless you have already got rid of the harmful ingredients in it. Water your plant once or twice a week, but it is also important to check the soils moisture level as well. Never allow your plant to sit in standing water – root rot can occur.
Soil
Your Winged Pitcher Plant does best in a well-drained soil mix that also lets any extra water to flow easily throughout. Try to have the pH level range be between 4.5 and 6.5 to help your plant take in the nutritional benefits.
Temperature
During the day for Winged Pitcher Plants, temperatures between 70°F and 85°F (21°C to 29°C) are desired. Do not let your plant to be in temperatures that are either under 55°F (13°C) or over 95°F (35°C) for a long time because this can damage your plant. Cold drafts should be prevented because that would add unwanted stress the leaves. 10 to 12 hours of light and then 12 to 14 hours of darkness is recommended to replicate your plants natural environments.
Humidity
Thriving in environments that are high in humidity, you should strive to keep a humid level of around 60% to 80% for your Winged Pitcher Plant. We recommend that you mist the foliage frequently to give your plant more humidity. You can do this with a spray bottle and fill it with distilled water. You should mist your plants leaves in the morning or early afternoon. Always monitor the humidity levels that your plant is surrounded by to make sure that they are doing well overall.
Fertilizer
Winged Pitcher Plant prefer a diluted fertilizer solution. It is encouraged that the fertilizer you use is balanced, and water-soluble that is specifically made for this type of plant. Although Winged Pitcher Plants usually need to be fertilized less often, you should still plan on fertilizing your plant every 2 to 3 months. The main source of nutrients for this type of plant is the insects that it catches. We suggest that you let your plant catch and eat insects in order to help its overall health.
Growth Rate
Winged Pitcher Plants growth rate can be slow. The mature height of that this plant can reach is around 12 to 24 inches (30 to 60 cm). This being said, factors like light intensity, temperature, and humidity all play a role in your plants growth rate. Each plant differs from the next so all Winged Pitcher Plants growth rates will vary.
Pet Friend or Foe
Winged Pitcher Plants are considered non-toxic to pets! Friend!
Pro Tips
- Try to not over-water your Winged Pitcher Plant. This can lead to the roots to rot.
- Placing your plant by a window that faces either north or east is best for it to get several hours of light exposure.
- As it can burn the leaves on your plant, be sure to not put it in a location that receives direct sunlight.