Source: Wikimedia Commons
Nepenthes × kinabaluensis
AdvancedNepenthes × kinabaluensis
A natural hybrid between N. rajah and N. villosa, found only around Mount Kinabalu in Borneo. Ribs on the inner edge of the peristome end in long teeth, and its pitchers are intermediate between the parents. It forms upper pitchers more readily than either parent.
About
Nepenthes × kinabaluensis is the natural hybrid between N. rajah and N. villosa, found only on Mount Kinabalu and nearby Mount Tambuyukon in Borneo, where both parents grow together. It was first collected by Lilian Gibbs in 1910, named by Shigeo Kurata in 1976 and validly published in 1984. It grows in open places in cloud forest at 2,420-3,030 m, a true high-mountain plant. It is broadly intermediate between its parents. Raised ribs line the inner edge of the peristome and end in elongated teeth, more prominent than in N. rajah but smaller than in N. villosa. The peristome is expanded at the margin but not scalloped like N. rajah, and the lid is orbicular and almost flat. Pitchers are larger than those of N. villosa, and the tendril joins the leaf 1-2 cm below its tip, a feature inherited from N. rajah. The hairiness of the pitchers and leaf margins is also intermediate, and pitcher colour ranges from yellow to scarlet. It forms upper pitchers more readily than either parent. It has been misidentified as N. rajah in a published guide. In Japan it is offered only occasionally by specialist nurseries, for example plants from Mount Tambuyukon. Although the parent N. rajah is in Appendix I, Species+ lists this hybrid in CITES Appendix II.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Basic Info
Origin
Natural hybrid from Borneo, Malaysia (Mount Kinabalu and Mount Tambuyukon, 2,420-3,030 m)
Lifespan
Perennial (climbing)
Size
Little published size data (pitchers larger than N. villosa)
Temperature
10〜30℃
Humidity
60〜90%
Watering & Fertilizer
Very dilute fertilizer at most (catches insects)
Growing Tips
Temperature & Overwintering
A highland species that needs cool nights to thrive long term; warm Japanese summer nights are the main challenge.
Light & Placement
Likes bright light, but harsh midsummer sun can scorch it. Keep it in bright part shade where humidity can be kept up.
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.
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.
Pests & Cautions
A hybrid from around 3,000 m that is especially intolerant of heat; it suits growers who can cool summer nights with air conditioning or other cooling.
Nepenthes × kinabaluensis FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Nepenthes × kinabaluensis?
Advanced. A variety suitable for advanced growers. Requires advanced cultivation techniques and specialized equipment, with careful environmental adjustments needed.
QHow should I water and fertilize Nepenthes × kinabaluensis?
Nepenthes × kinabaluensis: watering & fertilizer — Very dilute fertilizer at most (catches insects). Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Nepenthes × kinabaluensis?
The price of Nepenthes × kinabaluensis 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 × kinabaluensis Sh.Kurata
Authority databases: GBIF · GBIF Nepenthes × kinabaluensis Sh.Kurata
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). The parent N. rajah is in Appendix I, but Species+ lists this natural hybrid in Appendix II. Import and export across borders require CITES permits, but no registration is needed to buy, sell or give plants within Japan.
Sources: Species+ (CITES) Nepenthes × kinabaluensis
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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