Source: Wikimedia Commons
Nepenthes × ventrata
BeginnerNepenthes × ventrata
The pitcher plant most often seen at garden centres and home stores: a cross between the Philippine species N. ventricosa and N. alata (in the broad sense), bearing green pitchers flushed with red. Easy indoors, it is often sold under the name N. alata.
About
Nepenthes × ventrata is a hybrid between the Philippine endemic N. ventricosa and N. alata in the broad sense (including plants now treated as N. graciliflora). Like its parents it is native to the Philippines as a natural hybrid. The name was published in the Carnivorous Plant Newsletter in 1979, but the International Carnivorous Plant Society (ICPS) name list treats it as not validly published. It is one of the most commonly tissue-cultured Nepenthes, sold widely in garden centres and home stores and usually the first tropical pitcher plant people see; it is often mislabelled as N. alata. Names such as 'LeeAnn Marie' are regarded as later synonyms. It bears green pitchers flushed with red, and both parents are considered easy species with highland affinities. It is relatively easy indoors and tolerates fairly low humidity, making it a good first pitcher plant. It has also been used in research on how waxy pitcher surfaces make insects slip. Care is simple: a bright window, rain water or other low-mineral water, and a free-draining mix.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Basic Info
Origin
Philippines (natural hybrid); most plants in trade are tissue-cultured
Lifespan
Perennial climber
Size
Few published measurements
Temperature
10〜30℃
Humidity
60〜90%
Watering & Fertilizer
Very dilute fertilizer at most (catches insects)
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
Grow at a bright window; pitcher plants with thick, glossy leaves do well where they get some direct 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.
Temperature & Overwintering
A hybrid with highland affinities that appreciates cooler nights; bring it into a warm room for winter.
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
Cuttings root in damp sphagnum inside a bag or case in one to two months and start producing pitchers after about six months. Leggy vines cut back can be used as cuttings.
Nepenthes × ventrata FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Nepenthes × ventrata?
Beginner. A variety suitable for beginners. No special equipment or experience is required—you can grow it without problems by setting up a basic cultivation environment.
QHow should I water and fertilize Nepenthes × ventrata?
Nepenthes × ventrata: watering & fertilizer — Very dilute fertilizer at most (catches insects). Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Nepenthes × ventrata?
The price of Nepenthes × ventrata 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 × ventrata R.Fleming
Synonyms: Nepenthes 'LeeAnn Marie'
Authority databases: GBIF · GBIF Nepenthes × ventrata R.Fleming [DOUBTFUL]
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
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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