Heliamphora ionasi is the largest species in the genus and can be found growing between 5,800-7,000 feet. It's native to the Ilu-Tramen Valley between the bases of Ilu Tepui and Tramen Tepui in Venezuela. It's commonly found growing with H. elongata and hybrids between the two. A mature specimen really makes a statement in the highland setup. Slow growing.
Mature specimen. The image shows the exact plant you will receive. We ship this plant in a pot.
Helis are mainly highland plants. They prefer cool days around 75/83F and night time drops near 55-60F for success. The plants handle warmer temperatures quite well given the humidity is very high. Because they require a lot of light, many growers have great success indoors with LED and T5 grow lights. Moist, bright, and good airflow is key.
The genus Heliamphora is contains 23 or so species endemic to the Guiana Highlands of Venezuela. All species are endemic to isolated mountain ranges known as the Tepuis. These sandstone formations are also called the table mountains, and each one is isolated from the jungles below. The weather can be cold and rainy, but when the sun comes out the light is very strong.
Heli is from the Greek word helios, meaning “sun’, so they also go by the name sun pitcher plants, marsh pitcher plants, or south American pitcher plants. They secret sweet nectar which attracts prey, mainly small insects. The pitchers are covered in fine downward-facing hairs that direct prey deeper inside. These hairs make escape impossible. The insects tire and fall into the plant's digestive fluid. Enzymes break down and absorb the nutrients.