Nepenthes Flower Stalks: Seed Pods or Not?

Question: My Nepenthes put out two 12" 'sprouts' ending in tiny banana-like stalks. They turn brown, dry, look like seed pods with thread-like seeds. Are they seeds? Can I grow plants from them?

Answer

Hi Vicki,

Uncertain if they're seed pods. Nepenthes need male and female plants blooming together—no self-pollination. Yours is likely female. If a male bloomed nearby and insects transferred pollen, or if plant was pollinated before you got it, they could be seeds.

To sow: sprinkle on moist peat, press firmly, don't cover. Spray with sulfur fungicide (mold common). Keep warm. Tiny plantlets emerge in 4–8 weeks.

Upload a clear photo for confirmation. Male flower shown in Nepenthes video on our site: cobraplant.com. Care sheets: www.cobraplant.com/caresheets.

Good growing!
Jacob Farin