
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Nepenthes reinwardtiana
IntermediateNepenthes reinwardtiana
A pitcher plant of Borneo and Sumatra, best known for the two 'eye spots' on the inner wall of its pitchers. Colour ranges from green to deep red, and it grows anywhere from sea level to 2,200 m.
About
Nepenthes reinwardtiana is a pitcher plant species native to Borneo and Sumatra and to smaller surrounding islands including Bangka, Natuna, Nias and Siberut. The epithet honours the botanist Caspar Georg Carl Reinwardt. Records from Peninsular Malaysia and Singapore appear to be erroneous. It has an unusually wide altitudinal range of 0-2,200 m, making it both a lowland and a highland plant. There are many colour forms, from all green to dark red, varying from place to place. The best identification mark is the pair of 'eye spots' on the upper inner wall of the pitcher, which is rarely seen in other species. Molecular studies place it as sister to N. macrovulgaris of Borneo; despite a superficial resemblance it is not closely related to N. gracilis. N. naquiyuddinii, known from a small area of Sabah, is sometimes treated as a synonym. Many natural hybrids with other species are recorded, so take care not to confuse hybrid plants with the true species. It is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN. In Japan, plants labelled with their locality, including red forms, are regularly available from specialist nurseries and online auctions. Because of its wide altitude range, check the locality and elevation of a plant when buying and choose its growing conditions to match.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Basic Info
Origin
Borneo, Sumatra and nearby islands (0-2,200 m)
Lifespan
Perennial (climbing)
Size
Little published size data
Temperature
10〜30℃
Humidity
60〜90%
Watering & Fertilizer
Very dilute fertilizer at most (catches insects)
Growing Tips
Temperature & Overwintering
Because it ranges from lowland to highland, the right temperatures depend on the plant's origin. Keep lowland forms warm in winter and give highland forms cooler summer nights.
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.
Nepenthes reinwardtiana FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Nepenthes reinwardtiana?
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 reinwardtiana?
Nepenthes reinwardtiana: watering & fertilizer — Very dilute fertilizer at most (catches insects). Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Nepenthes reinwardtiana?
The price of Nepenthes reinwardtiana 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 reinwardtiana Miq.
Synonyms: Nepenthes naquiyuddinii(異名とする見解あり)
Authority databases: GBIF · GBIF Nepenthes reinwardtiana Miq.
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 reinwardtiana
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Find listings for this species
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