Robert Tan Hung Huat · CC BY-SA 3.0
About
Nepenthes *gracilis*, or the slender pitcher-plant, is a common lowland species known for its widespread distribution across the Sunda region. It is characterized by its relatively unremarkable, small, and elongated pitchers with a very thin peristome.
Field notes
Morphology
The plant features small, elongated pitchers and possesses a very thin peristome. A unique morphological feature is the underside of the pitcher lid, which bears an uneven layer of wax crystals. These pitchers are generally described as appearing relatively unremarkable.
Distribution & habitat
This species is native to the Sunda region, with confirmed populations in Borneo, Cambodia, Peninsular Malaysia, Singapore, Sumatra, and Thailand. It is also recorded from numerous smaller islands, including the Bangka, Batu, and Riau Islands. Its altitudinal range is wide, from 0 to 1,100 meters, though most populations are found below 100 meters.
Ecology
The trapping mechanism of *N. gracilis* is unusual, relying on the wax crystals on the underside of the pitcher lid. In dry conditions, insects can adhere to this uneven wax layer. During heavy rain, the impact of raindrops striking the lid causes insects to lose their footing and fall into the pitcher cup.
History & etymology
The species was formally described by Pieter Willem Korthals in his 1839 monograph, "Over het geslacht Nepenthes." The name *gracilis* comes from the Latin word for "slender." A related species, *Nepenthes abgracilis*, was named for its superficial similarity to this species.
Habitat
- Altitude
- 0–1,100 m
- Altitude Class
- intermediate
- Native To
- Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore, Brunei
- IUCN Status
- Least Concern
Taxonomy
- Described
- 1839
- Authority
- Korth.
Cultivation
- Difficulty
- easy
- Temperature
- Day 28–35°C / Night 20–28°C
- Humidity
- 65–90%
In My Collection 2 plants
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