Monkey Jar Pitcher Plant - Nepenthes - 14cm | Houseplant

Monkey Jars (Nepenthes) – Tropical Pitcher Plant

Monkey Jars (Nepenthes) are fascinating carnivorous plants known for their distinctive pitcher-shaped traps that hang from the ends of their leaves. These colourful pitchers naturally attract and capture insects, making them one of the most unusual and eye-catching plants you can grow indoors.

With their exotic appearance and remarkable growth habit, Monkey Jars are a favourite among plant collectors and carnivorous plant enthusiasts.

What Are Monkey Jars?

Monkey Jars are tropical carnivorous plants belonging to the Nepenthes genus, native to Southeast Asia, Madagascar, and parts of Australia. Their common name comes from the pitcher-shaped traps, which in the wild can sometimes hold enough water for small animals to drink from.

The pitchers are modified leaves that help the plant obtain nutrients by trapping insects.

Why Choose Monkey Jars?

• Unique hanging pitcher traps
• Fascinating carnivorous behaviour
• Exotic tropical appearance
• Excellent collector's plant
• Ideal for bright indoor spaces

Pitchers and Growth Habit

Nepenthes plants produce long leaves that end in tendrils, from which the pitchers develop. Depending on the variety, pitchers may be green, red, purple, orange, or patterned with intricate markings.

The plant grows as a climbing or trailing vine and becomes increasingly impressive as it matures.

Light Requirements

Bright, indirect light is ideal:

• Encourages pitcher production
• Avoid harsh direct sunlight
• A bright windowsill or conservatory works well

Insufficient light may reduce the number of pitchers.

Watering

Monkey Jars prefer consistently moist conditions:

• Keep the compost lightly moist
• Use rainwater, distilled water, or purified water where possible
• Avoid allowing the soil to dry out completely

Do not use standard fertilisers or mineral-rich water.

Humidity and Temperature

These tropical plants prefer:

• Moderate to high humidity
• Warm indoor temperatures
• Protection from cold draughts

Higher humidity helps support healthy pitcher development.

Is Monkey Jars Low-Maintenance?

They require moderate care:

• Prefer consistent moisture and humidity
• Benefit from bright conditions
• Reward growers with spectacular pitchers

Perfect For

• Carnivorous plant collections
• Terrariums and indoor displays
• Bright windowsills
• Unique plant gifts

With their colourful hanging pitchers and fascinating insect-trapping ability, Monkey Jars (Nepenthes) are among the most extraordinary plants available, bringing a truly exotic touch to any UK home.

Provided in a 14cm pot.
This plant is pet safe.
For full care instructions head over to our Houseplant Care Guides Page and select Monkey Jar - View full care guide