Nepenthes × hookeriana, known as Hooker's Pitcher Plant, is one of the most fascinating natural hybrids in the carnivorous plant world. Found growing wild in the lowland forests of Borneo, Peninsular Malaysia, Singapore, and Sumatra, this plant is the offspring of two remarkable and very different parent species: Nepenthes ampullaria (the famous semi-vegetarian detritivore) and Nepenthes rafflesiana (a large, colorful insect predator). The result is a hybrid that inherits the best traits of both parents – the robust vigor and compact pitchers of ampullaria combined with the striking coloration and predatory efficiency of rafflesiana.

The pitchers of N. × hookeriana are distinctive and immediately recognizable. Lower pitchers tend to be plump and globular with a wide, flared peristome (rim) that often displays vivid red, green, and purple striping. The overall shape is rounder and more stout than most Nepenthes, reflecting the ampullaria parentage, while the dramatic coloring and pronounced nectar glands come from rafflesiana. Upper pitchers develop a more elongated, funnel-like form as the vine matures. Colors vary considerably between individual plants – from bright green with red speckles to deep burgundy with green veining – making each specimen visually unique.

As a lowland species, N. × hookeriana thrives in warm, humid conditions and grows with notable vigor. It readily produces basal shoots, forming attractive multi-stemmed clumps over time. The vining stems can reach considerable length in ideal conditions, making it well-suited for hanging baskets where the pitchers can dangle dramatically.

Care Requirements:

• Light: Bright filtered light to partial shade. Tolerates lower light than many Nepenthes (ampullaria parentage), but develops the best pitcher color with good light exposure. Avoid harsh direct midday sun.
• Water: Keep soil consistently moist to wet. Use distilled water, rainwater, or reverse osmosis water only. Mist the plant regularly to maintain pitcher hydration. Tolerates overhead watering well.
• Soil: Light, airy, nutrient-poor mix: long-fibered sphagnum moss with perlite (60:40), or sphagnum with orchid bark and perlite. Ensure excellent drainage and aeration. NEVER use regular potting soil.
• Temperature: 20-30°C (68-86°F) daytime – this is a true lowland species that loves warmth. Avoid prolonged exposure below 16°C (60°F). Does not tolerate frost.
• Humidity: 60-80% ideal. Higher humidity than many other beginner Nepenthes due to lowland parentage. Terrariums and vivariums provide excellent growing environments. Mist frequently if growing on a windowsill.
• Feeding: 1-2 small insects per pitcher every 2-3 weeks. Dried bloodworms, fish food pellets, or osmocote pellets also work. Outdoor plants in warm climates catch their own prey abundantly.

Botanical Info: Family: Nepenthaceae | Genus: Nepenthes | Hybrid: N. ampullaria × N. rafflesiana (natural hybrid) | Common Name: Hooker's Pitcher Plant | Named After: Sir Joseph Dalton Hooker (British botanist) | Origin: Borneo, Peninsular Malaysia, Singapore, Sumatra | Type: Tropical Vine (lowland) | Zone: 10-12 | Growth: Vigorous, produces basal shoots | No dormancy required