About
Nepenthes hirsuta, commonly known as the hairy pitcher-plant, is a tropical pitcher plant endemic to Borneo. It is easily identified by the thick covering of brown hairs (indumentum) found on its leaves and inflorescence.
Field notes
Morphology
The plant is characterized by an indumentum of thick brown hairs, which is present on the leaves and the inflorescence. The pitchers are generally green in color, though some specimens may exhibit red blotches on their inner surfaces.
Distribution & habitat
This species is endemic to Borneo. It can be found across a wide range of habitats, including kerangas forest, mossy banks in lower montane forest, open areas, and disturbed vegetation on lower ridges. It typically grows on sandstone substrates and thrives at elevations between 200 and 1,100 meters.
History & etymology
The species name *Nepenthes hirsuta* comes from the Latin word *hirsūtus*, meaning 'hairy' or 'bristly'. Taxonomically, it is noted to be most closely related to *N. hispida* and *N. macrovulgaris*. Some botanists also suggest a relationship with *N. philippinensis*.
Habitat
- Altitude
- 200–1,100 m
- Altitude Class
- intermediate
- Native To
- Malaysia, Indonesia, Brunei
- IUCN Status
- Least Concern
Taxonomy
- Described
- 1873
- Authority
- Hook.f.
Cultivation
- Difficulty
- easy
- Temperature
- Day 22–30°C / Night 15–22°C
- Humidity
- 70–90%
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