Source: Wikimedia Commons
Nepenthes veitchii
AdvancedNepenthes veitchii
A Bornean pitcher plant whose broad, upright peristome flares widely with fine ridges likened to a fish's gills. It grows as an epiphyte, producing leaves in two ranks that clasp tree trunks.
About
Nepenthes veitchii is a pitcher plant species from Borneo, named after James Veitch of the Veitch nursery firm in England. It is widespread in north-western Borneo and also occurs in parts of Kalimantan, from lowland dipterocarp forest near rivers to mossy ridge-top forest at 0-1,600 m. It is usually epiphytic: the 19th-century collector Burbidge wrote that he never saw it on the ground but found it in great numbers on tree trunks 20-100 feet up. Its leaves are arranged in two ranks and some clasp the trunk like arms folded around it, a habit described as unique in the genus, although the form from Bario appears to be strictly terrestrial. Its most striking feature is the pitcher mouth: the broad peristome rises almost vertically, with narrow ridges converging towards the centre that J. D. Hooker compared to a fish's gills. Beccari, who found it in 1865, described the rim as rich orange, attracting insects from a distance, and recorded pitchers about ten inches long. It is thought to be closely related to N. robcantleyi of the Philippines and has also been compared to N. truncata. In Japan it is a popular species, with many locality forms sold by specialist nurseries and at online auctions.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Size of the Nepenthes veitchii
The Nepenthes veitchii grows to Pitchers about 25 cm long (19th-century record).
Basic Info
Origin
Borneo (mainly north-west, 0-1,600 m)
Lifespan
Perennial (epiphytic to climbing)
Size
Pitchers about 25 cm long (19th-century record)
Temperature
10〜30℃
Humidity
60〜90%
Watering & Fertilizer
Very dilute fertilizer at most (catches insects)
Growing Tips
Temperature & Overwintering
It ranges from 0 to 1,600 m, so plants behave as lowland or highland depending on origin; check the locality and give highland plants cooler nights.
Light & Placement
Bright light brings out the rim colour; grow in bright part shade rather than harsh 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; a free-draining mix keeps the roots healthy.
Soil & Repotting
As an epiphyte it suits an airy mix or mounting on a board or tree-fern; never let the roots stay soggy.
Fertilizer
If using chemical fertilizer, use it at very low strength; an occasional insect dropped into a pitcher is enough.
Pests & Cautions
Plants vary greatly in habit and colour by locality; choosing a plant with a locality label makes its needs easier to judge. Buy only seed-grown or tissue-cultured plants.
Nepenthes veitchii FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Nepenthes veitchii?
Advanced. A variety suitable for advanced growers. Requires advanced cultivation techniques and specialized equipment, with careful environmental adjustments needed.
QHow large does Nepenthes veitchii get?
The mature size of Nepenthes veitchii is Pitchers about 25 cm long (19th-century record). This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Nepenthes veitchii?
Nepenthes veitchii: watering & fertilizer — Very dilute fertilizer at most (catches insects). Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Nepenthes veitchii?
The price of Nepenthes veitchii 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 veitchii Hook.f.
Authority databases: GBIF · GBIF Nepenthes veitchii Hook.fil.
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 veitchii
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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