What is nepenthes attenboroughii?

Nepenthes attenboroughii is a species of pitcher plant that is endemic to the Philippines. It was named after Sir David Attenborough, a renowned naturalist and broadcaster, due to his contributions to raising awareness about conservation and biodiversity.

N. attenboroughii is known for having the largest pitchers of any Nepenthes species, with some reaching up to 30 centimeters in length. These pitchers are typically a light green color, with prominent ribs and a wide peristome (the rim of the pitcher).

This species is found in the highland forests of Mindanao Island in the Philippines, where it grows in damp, mossy habitats at elevations of around 1,000 to 1,600 meters above sea level. N. attenboroughii is classified as critically endangered due to habitat loss and illegal collection for the horticultural trade.

In the wild, N. attenboroughii primarily feeds on insects and other small invertebrates that are attracted to the sugary nectar produced by the pitcher. The pitchers of this species have evolved to trap and digest prey as a means of obtaining nutrients in nutrient-poor environments.

Overall, Nepenthes attenboroughii is a unique and fascinating species of pitcher plant that is highly valued by plant enthusiasts and conservationists alike.