Nepenthes lowii is endemic to Borneo, where it grows in cool, cloud forests. The upper pitchers are hour glass shaped and have wide open mouths. Nepenthes lowii has a symbiotic relationship with a mouse-like creature called a shrew. The Shrew feasts on sugary exudate under the lid. As it dines, it defecates into the pitchers. The plant absorbs the nitrogen and that is how lowii gets the name " The Toilet Pitcher Plant". This species does need cooler nights to thrive and very high relative humidity. A Must have for the species collector!
Nepenthes are primarily native to Southeast Asia. There are roughly 180 species, with many recently discovered in the 20th century. They grow anywhere from hot, sticky jungles to chill mountain tops high above the clouds. Tho Nepenthes were once thought to be difficult to grow, this is far from the truth. Most plants have adapted to cultivation quite well and the hobby is growing quickly. In fact, most tropical pitcher plants species and hybrids will thrive indoors between 60 and85 degrees Fahrenheit. Check out our Nepenthes care tips here. For an in depth look at different species and their temperature requirements take a look at this guide. Make sure to sign up for our Newsletter for blog updates and to be notified when we add more plants to our online shop!