Pitcher Plant

Nepenthes muluensis

The pitcher plant is originally native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Old world, including Madagascar, Australia, and Southeast Asia. It can also be found in North America as well, specifically Canada. The plant gained its name by a French Govenor in 1658. The governor referred the plant to as the Amramatico. Outside of the plants fascinating history, there is more to learn about the pitcher plant. Continue to scroll down the page to learn cool facts and information about the beautiful exotic plant.

MEDICAL USES

The pitcher plant has been proven to have medical uses. The root and stem are taken orally for digestive disorders, partially constipation, urinary tract diseases, and fluid retention. Also can be used to prevent scar prevention. The plant contains tannins and other chemicals that help with some digestive issues.

PLANTING INSTRUCTIONS

Depth of planting: 6 inches
Soil requirements: A mix of organic material, sand, and peat moss. For indoor, fill a container with low-fertility mixture of peat moss mixed with lime-free horticultural sand or Pertile.
pH level: 5.5-5.8
Sunlight requirements: Place in direct sunlight. 10 hours a day if indoors.
Water requirements: Keep soil moist, the plants originally live in boggy areas. Water twice a day, once in the morning and then towards the evening. Use distilled water or rainwater, tap water contains too many minerals that can affect the growth rate of the plants, causing them to dry out.

USDA ZONES

Pitcher plants are ideal to grow in zone 6-8.

GROWTH INFORMATION

Easy to plant but moderately difficult to plant
Average germination time is 3-6 years
The pitcher plant is annual, grow 5-10 new plants a year once flower is bloomed
Overall planting size is 11.8 inches (30 cm)
First bloom appears two to three weeks in time of April or may, depending on the climate and specific species of plant

HARVESTING SEEDS

To collect seeds, do so during the fall season..

Pinch open the dry capsules over an envelope or piece of paper towel.
Drop seeds into a sandwich bag, along with a fungicide and shake the bag to coat the seeds.
Pour the seeds and powder onto a new sheet of paper towel and blow off excess powder.
Spread seeds out on a dampened paper towel, roll up the towel and store it in a zip-lock bag in the refrigerator for 2-3 months.

For more information about the Pitcher plant and the sources used for the information above, please visit the following links for further information:

https://www.masterclass.com/articles/pitcher-plant-care-guide

https://www.medicinenet.com/pitcher_plant/supplements-vitamins.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/pitcher-plants/pitcher-plant-flowers.htm#:~:text=One%20seed%20capsule%20can%20release%20as%20many%20as,or%20pitchers%20developing%20after%20three%20to%20six%20years.

https://www.masterclass.com/articles/pitcher-plant-care-guide

Webpage created by Mount Aloysisus student, Biology II, Katie Fasel.

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