Carnivorous plants are very intriguing to most people. This unique group of plants supplements their diet by absorbing nutrients from insects and other small animals. One of the most attractive carnivorous plants is the tropical pitcher plant (Nepenthes). There are approximately 80 different species of these rambling tropical vines, native to Southeast Asia.

Plant explorers discovered the first tropical pitcher plant (Nepenthes madagascariensis) in 1658. The invention of orangeries and later glass greenhouses made tropical pitcher plants the plant of choice for wealthy plant collectors around the globe. In 1833, Nathaniel Ward developed the Wardian Case, or terrarium, which allowed the middle class the ability to collect and successfully grow unique tropical plants in their homes. Tropical pitcher plants quickly became one of the most collected tropical plant species of the Victorian era.

Tropical pitcher plants get their common name from the large bulbous pitcher-like structures that develop on the tips of some leaves. Once these structures mature and open, they secrete nectar and digestive fluids from specialized glands within and around the pitcher. The alluring nectar and vibrant markings on the lower pitchers of some species attracts insects, as well as small animals. Once trapped inside, the doomed insect finds it almost impossible to escape due to the waxy interior of the pitcher. Digestive juices then dissolve and absorb the insect's soft tissues, leaving only the harder exoskeleton behind.

Nepenthes alata is probably the most common and easiest to grow species because of its adaptability to lower growing temperatures and humidity. This remarkable plant thrives in high light conditions (such as a windowsill) and benefits from frequent misting to its foliage.

Pitcher plants will grow in a variety of pots including clay, plastic and wooden orchid baskets. They thrive in a growing medium consisting of equal amounts of peat moss, fine orchid bark, and vermiculite. Water plants quite regularly with purified water if possible. Pay particular attention to purchase a fertilizer developed specifically for orchids and apply a weak solution of it once or twice per month.

Several Nepenthes alata are on display through March 5 in the Oh! Orchids Conservatory display at Iowa State University's Reiman Gardens.

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