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From Selby Gardens:
"These carnivorous plants have fascinating way of catching and eating insects and other small animals.
The plant's pitcher and its lid form a trap, which is actually a modified leaf. Glands in the lid secrete a nectar that attracts the prey, which may fall into the pitcher and drown. Glands in the inner walls of the pitcher then secrete enzymes that aid in digestion, and fluids inside the pitcher contain bacteria wich also contribute to the digestive process.
Because Nepenthes absorb nutrients from animals, they are capable of growing in areas that are nutrient poor. Over 70 species can be found in tropical Asia, Australia and Madagascar, where they may grow as epiphytes, or grow on the ground in moist, humid regions.
One species is known to have pitchers large and sturdy enough to hold nearly a gallon of liquid. When the lid of the pitcher is still closed, the fluid is pure and potable, providing refreshment for thirsty travelers."
Pitcher plant (Nepenthes sp.) found in Mount Hamiguitan Range, San Isidro, Davao Oriental. Taken from Nov 29-Dec 1, 2009)
Our pitcher plant obviously appreciates the flies we keep feeding it - it has rewarded us with a flower. A curious thing, on a vertical stem from the centre of the pitcher rosette - can't wait to find out how far it will open up.
Just bought this pitcher plant, but I know very little about it. I'm thinking it's in the Nepenthes group. Can anyone help ID it?
Marl Bogs contain lime, which means these plants in the wild grow in media that has a high pH . In other words, the soil is basic, not acidic.
the red purpurea ssp. purpurea in the front are the marl bog form from McGregor Point, Bruce Co, ON. In the wild, plants are reported to look "stunted' and really red. In cultivation, these plants have medium-high vigor, and still retain their beautiful dark red color, even when grown in peat moss.
The other tray in the background are from Huron Co and Wellington Co, ON
this clone has a very shapely lid and oval mouth. The "neck" turns red as the pitcher ages, but this doesn't happen consistently. S. oreophila is weird like that-this clone is a lot more colorful this year than last year-throat as of 7/26/2011 has turned red