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Nepenthes Lowii (Nepenthes lowii)

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Nepenthes Lowii

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Nepenthes lowii

A Nepenthes with toilet-shaped pitchers that collect tree shrew droppings as nutrition.

Growing Difficulty
Advanced
Temperature
12〜25℃
Lifespan
10+ years
Size
Vine 30-150cm
Humidity
60〜90%
Watering & Fertilizer
Animal droppings, insects

Overview

Nepenthes lowii is a highland species native to Borneo, occurring at altitudes of approximately 1,600–2,600 m in montane mossy forests on Mount Kinabalu and several other peaks. The species is celebrated for its unusual mutualism with treeshrews (Tupaia spp.) and mountain tree rats: the underside of the pitcher lid secretes a nutritious exudate that attracts these mammals, which perch on the pitcher rim to feed and defecate directly into the pitcher fluid, providing a significant proportion of the plant's nitrogen intake. This relationship has driven the evolution of the species' characteristically wide-mouthed, stable pitcher shape. It is considered one of the more rewarding highland Nepenthes for experienced growers.

Lifespan of the Nepenthes Lowii

The Nepenthes Lowii lives 10+ years.

Size of the Nepenthes Lowii

The Nepenthes Lowii grows to Vine 30-150cm.

Temperature & humidity for the Nepenthes Lowii

The ideal temperature for the Nepenthes Lowii is 12〜25℃.

Cultivation requires highland temperature conditions (days 20–25°C, nights 10–15°C), sphagnum-based media with good drainage, and moderate to high humidity.

Basic Info

Origin

Borneo (Mount Kinabalu and other peaks), montane mossy forests at approximately 1,600–2,600 m elevation

Lifespan

10+ years

Size

Vine 30-150cm

Temperature

12〜25℃

Humidity

60〜90%

Watering & Fertilizer

Animal droppings, insects

Growing Tips

Light & Placement

Give it bright light in a spot that stays cool. As a highland species it is best kept in a setup with temperature control.

Watering

Keep the sphagnum moist with purified water or rainwater and maintain high humidity. Never let the medium dry out.

Temperature & Overwintering

The ideal range is 12-25°C with highland care that includes a day-night temperature drop. Among highland species it is relatively easy.

Soil & Repotting

Use sphagnum moss alone and keep it well aerated. Repot gently to avoid damaging the roots.

Fertilizer

In the wild it uses mammal droppings as a nitrogen source. In cultivation it needs almost no fertilizer; if any, use it very diluted.

Pests & Cautions

Summer heat is its greatest enemy. Keep it cool with a day-night drop and it grows sturdily for a highland species.

CarnivorousNepenthesToiletTree Shrew

Nepenthes Lowii FAQ

QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Nepenthes Lowii?
A

Advanced. A variety suitable for advanced growers. Requires advanced cultivation techniques and specialized equipment, with careful environmental adjustments needed.

QWhat is the ideal temperature for Nepenthes Lowii?
A

The ideal temperature for Nepenthes Lowii is 12〜25℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.

QWhat is the lifespan of Nepenthes Lowii?
A

The average lifespan of Nepenthes Lowii is 10+ years. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.

QHow large does Nepenthes Lowii get?
A

The mature size of Nepenthes Lowii is Vine 30-150cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.

QHow should I water and fertilize Nepenthes Lowii?
A

Nepenthes Lowii: watering & fertilizer — Animal droppings, insects. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.

QWhat is the typical price for Nepenthes Lowii?
A

The price of Nepenthes Lowii varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.

Last updated: October 2, 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.

Primary sources

Taxonomy & Authority

Accepted name: Nepenthes lowii Hook.f.

Authority databases: GBIF · POWO · ICPS cultivar registration (International Carnivorous Plant Society)

Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.

Regulations & Conservation Status

CITES Appendix II

The genus Nepenthes, except for rajah/khasiana, is CITES Appendix II at the genus level. International trade requires permits.

Sources: CITES Appendices (carnivorous plants) - ICPS/Barry Rice / CITES & Carnivorous Plant Checklist (RBG Kew)

Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.

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An introduction to growing highland nepenthes. Covers the key points of managing summer temperatures with air conditioning at about 25–27°C during the day and 20°C at night while maintaining the ideal humidity of 70–90%, a potting mix of 6 parts sphagnum moss, 2 parts perlite, and 2 parts kanuma soil, and a guideline of keeping temperatures at 10°C or above in winter.

How to Grow Nepenthes | Cultivation Techniques to Grow Larger Pitchers

We cover how to grow Nepenthes, including the difference in ideal temperatures between lowland and highland species, how to maintain 70–80% humidity, and a 7:3 sphagnum moss and perlite potting mix, and we also explain the light, ventilation, and fertilizer needed to grow larger pitchers and why you shouldn't cut the growing point.

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