Source: Wikimedia Commons
Nepenthes × hookeriana
IntermediateNepenthes × hookeriana
A natural hybrid of N. ampullaria and N. rafflesiana, relatively common in the lowlands of Borneo, Peninsular Malaysia and nearby, known as Hooker's pitcher-plant. A staple of hanging-basket sales in Japan.
About
Nepenthes × hookeriana is the natural hybrid between N. ampullaria and N. rafflesiana. It is named after the British botanist Joseph Dalton Hooker and known in English as Hooker's pitcher-plant; it was originally described as a species. It is a relatively common natural hybrid throughout the lowlands of Borneo, Peninsular Malaysia, Singapore and Sumatra, and on smaller islands such as Natuna. Like its parents it usually grows in recently disturbed, open clearings. In Japan it is a staple of mass-market hanging baskets, sold under its own name separately from N. rafflesiana and N. ampullaria. The CITES database Species+ lists N. hookeriana as its own entry in Appendix II, as for the genus. With lowland parents it is sensitive to cold, so Japanese winters call for a heated room. Basic care is bright light, fairly high humidity, low-mineral water and a free-draining mix.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Basic Info
Origin
Lowlands of Borneo, Peninsular Malaysia, Singapore and Sumatra (natural hybrid)
Lifespan
Perennial climber
Size
Few published measurements
Temperature
10〜30℃
Humidity
60〜90%
Watering & Fertilizer
Very dilute fertilizer at most (catches insects)
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
Grow in bright light; in the wild it grows in open clearings.
Watering
Use rain water or water low in dissolved minerals and water before the mix dries out. Do not leave the pot standing in water; a free-draining mix keeps the roots healthy.
Temperature & Overwintering
A lowland plant that likes warmth all year; keep it in a warm, fairly humid room through winter.
Soil & Repotting
Plant in a free-draining, airy mix; pure sphagnum or orchid mix with sphagnum or perlite are common choices.
Fertilizer
If using chemical fertilizer, use it at very low strength; an occasional insect dropped into a pitcher is enough.
Propagation
Cuttings root in damp sphagnum inside a bag or case in one to two months and start producing pitchers after about six months.
Nepenthes × hookeriana FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Nepenthes × hookeriana?
Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.
QHow should I water and fertilize Nepenthes × hookeriana?
Nepenthes × hookeriana: watering & fertilizer — Very dilute fertilizer at most (catches insects). Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Nepenthes × hookeriana?
The price of Nepenthes × hookeriana varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 23, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Accepted name: Nepenthes × hookeriana H.Low
Authority databases: GBIF · GBIF Nepenthes × hookeriana H.Low
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Regulations & Conservation Status
The whole genus Nepenthes is listed in CITES Appendix II (apart from a few Appendix I species), and this covers hybrids and cultivars too. Import and export across borders require CITES permits; buying, selling and growing within Japan require no paperwork.
Sources: Species+ (CITES) Nepenthes hookeriana
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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Developing Nepenthes Pitcher Traps Completely: Cultivation Secrets Through Environmental Management and Physiological Approaches
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