
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Nepenthes madagascariensis
IntermediateNepenthes madagascariensis
A lowland pitcher plant of the east coast of Madagascar. It bears mostly slender, funnel-shaped yellow upper pitchers with a broad peristome and an almost circular lid, and was the first Nepenthes species recorded scientifically, in the 17th century.
About
Nepenthes madagascariensis is one of two pitcher plant species native to Madagascar, the other being N. masoalensis. It was recorded by the Frenchman Étienne de Flacourt in 1658 and is regarded as the first Nepenthes species to be described scientifically; the formal name was published by Poiret in 1798. It occurs along the east coast of the island, most commonly in the south around Tôlanaro and north as far as the Masoala Peninsula, at the edges of swamps and on peaty or sandy soils in open lowland sites. It is a shrubby plant rarely taller than 2 m, with young parts covered in red hairs. It forms few ground pitchers and mainly produces slender, funnel-shaped upper pitchers about 26 cm tall. They are usually bright yellow, though red pitchers have been recorded. The broad peristome and almost circular lid are characteristic. Most of its prey are ants, and spiders live in the pitchers. Plants are either male or female. It was assessed as Least Concern by the IUCN in 2018. In Japan it is handled by wildflower and carnivorous plant nurseries and at online auctions, including cutting-grown plants. As a lowland species it is sensitive to cold.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Size of the Nepenthes madagascariensis
The Nepenthes madagascariensis grows to Up to 2 m tall; upper pitchers about 26 cm tall.
Basic Info
Origin
Madagascar (lowlands of the east coast)
Lifespan
Perennial (shrubby)
Size
Up to 2 m tall; upper pitchers about 26 cm tall
Temperature
10〜30℃
Humidity
60〜90%
Watering & Fertilizer
Very dilute fertilizer at most (catches mainly ants)
Growing Tips
Temperature & Overwintering
A lowland species that wants warmth and humidity all year. It is cold-sensitive, so keep it in a warm room or heated greenhouse from autumn to spring.
Light & Placement
Likes bright light. Grow it in a bright window or greenhouse spot, avoiding only harsh midsummer sun.
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.
Propagation
Plants are either male or female, so a single plant cannot set seed. Cutting-grown plants are sold, and you can propagate it yourself from stem cuttings.
Nepenthes madagascariensis FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Nepenthes madagascariensis?
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 large does Nepenthes madagascariensis get?
The mature size of Nepenthes madagascariensis is Up to 2 m tall; upper pitchers about 26 cm tall. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Nepenthes madagascariensis?
Nepenthes madagascariensis: watering & fertilizer — Very dilute fertilizer at most (catches mainly ants). Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Nepenthes madagascariensis?
The price of Nepenthes madagascariensis 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 madagascariensis Poir.
Synonyms: Nepenthes madagascariensis var. macrocarpa Scott Elliot, Nepenthes madagascariensis var. cylindrica Dub.
Authority databases: GBIF · GBIF Nepenthes madagascariensis Poir.
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). 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 madagascariensis
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Find listings for this species
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