Plants with Attitude
N. villosa
N. villosa lower pitcher CompostAn open mix; we use fine orchid bark, charcoal, and sphagnum peat moss, in the approximate ratio of 3:2:1.

Watering: Typical.

Cultivation Difficulty: Difficult (4); as plants mature, they require true ultrahighland conditions to grow well.

PropagationNo experience.

Distribution:  Borneo.1

Ecology:  Mossy forest; 2400-3200 m.1

N. villosa lower pitcher
N. villosa is a stunning species, but in keeping with its ultrahighland origin, it requires truly cool conditions to thrive.  A temperature range of approximatly 3 C to 18 C is suggested, with high humidity and good illumination.  This species is very slow growing and is not a good choice for the novice, or those who are unlikely to invest the long-term effort which its successful cultivation requires.  Note that when small, this species is fairly forgiving of overly warm temperatures; however, as it matures, it becomes much more demanding.  Therefore, real planning and consideration is recommended prior to undertaking its cultivation.  It is one of very few species which we consider truly difficult, but if appropriate conditions are provided, it can be grown quite well.  The pitcher shown is approximately 10 cm in height.

1C. Clarke, Nepenthes of Borneo, Kota Kinabalu, 1997, p. 135.