Nepenthes 'Red Mary'

Nepenthes 'Red Mary' is a hybrid between Nepenthes ventricosa and Nepenthes sibuyanensis, bred for its adaptability and strong pitcher production. It inherits the vigour and tolerance of ventricosa while gaining the larger, more substantial pitcher form from sibuyanensis. This combination makes it a dependable choice for growers in a wide range of climates, from intermediate indoor setups to cooler greenhouse conditions.

The hybrid maintains active pitcher production for much of the year, even when humidity drops below levels preferred by many other Nepenthes. It responds well to brighter light with deeper red pigmentation, but will still form functional pitchers in moderate light. Unlike more delicate species, 'Red Mary' tolerates occasional fluctuations in temperature, making it easier to keep in mixed plant collections without specialised environmental control.

In cultivation, the plant adapts readily to both hanging basket and upright support growth. It transitions smoothly from lower to upper pitcher production without long gaps, and stem cuttings root with relative ease for propagation. Its resilience, consistent growth, and ability to maintain attractive traps across seasons have made it a stable fixture in collections since its introduction.

Care Tips:

• Light: Bright, filtered light; some direct morning or late afternoon sun will deepen colour.
• Water: Keep the substrate evenly moist with rainwater or low-mineral water; do not allow to dry out.
• Humidity: Will tolerate moderate humidity, but higher levels improve pitcher size and colour.
• Media: Use a free-draining mix such as sphagnum moss with bark or perlite.
• Fertiliser: Apply very dilute orchid fertiliser occasionally to roots or a small amount into pitchers.
• Temperature: Best grown between 18–28 °C; tolerates short periods outside this range.
• Repotting: Refresh media every 1–2 years to maintain aeration and healthy root development.