Experience the wonder of carnivorous plants with the fascinating ‘Monkey Cups’ (Nepenthes species), nature’s own insect-catching marvel. These extraordinary plants produce hanging pitcher-shaped traps that look like tiny cups, earning their common name from monkeys observed drinking rainwater from the pitchers in the wild. It’s like having a piece of exotic jungle right in your home!
Available Size: 6” plants in hanging landscape pots
Plant Characteristics:
Monkey Cups are climbing or trailing carnivorous plants that produce distinctive pitcher traps at the ends of their leaves. The pitchers are typically 2-4 inches long with a lid that prevents rainwater from diluting the digestive enzymes inside. The traps are beautifully colored, often displaying greens, reds, and purples that become more vibrant with proper lighting. Each pitcher has a slippery rim and downward-pointing hairs that guide insects into the trap where they are digested to provide nutrients for the plant. The main foliage consists of elongated green leaves that extend into tendrils, giving the plant an elegant, vine-like appearance.
Care Instructions:
• Light: Bright, indirect light with some morning sun; avoid harsh afternoon direct sunlight
• Water: Use only distilled, rainwater, or reverse osmosis water; keep soil consistently moist
• Humidity: High humidity essential (60-80%); use humidity tray or terrarium setup
• Temperature: Warm temperatures 70-85°F during day, slight drop at night (60-70°F)
• Feeding: Never fertilize soil; plants catch their own food or can be fed small insects occasionally
• Air Circulation: Good airflow prevents fungal issues while maintaining high humidity
Special Notes:
Do not fertilize or feed the pitchers anything other than small insects - they are perfectly capable of catching their own prey! Empty pitchers will naturally dry up and should be trimmed off to encourage new growth. These plants are slow growers but incredibly rewarding to observe in action. A support structure can help climbing varieties.
Perfect for curious plant enthusiasts and anyone fascinated by nature’s ingenuity. Safe around children and pets, though the pitchers should not be disturbed or played with.
Plant Purchase Information
Photos on our website serve as variety references to help you identify the type of plant you’re selecting. Each living plant is naturally unique, so your individual plant will have its own character while staying true to the variety you’ve chosen.
Your Plant May Vary In:
• Coloration and variegation patterns
• Overall fullness and size
• Bloom status (flowering plants may or may not be in bloom)
• Leaf shape and growth pattern
• Seasonal appearance
What You’ll Receive:
Your plant will arrive healthy and well-established in a standard greenhouse or landscape pot, ready for you to enjoy and care for. While it may look different from the reference photo, it will be the correct variety you ordered.
We select quality plants that truly represent each variety, and we’re excited for you to watch your unique plant flourish and develop its own personality in your care!
