Nepenthes Mirabillis China x Bicalcarata - Carnivorous Plant

Nepenthes Mirabilis China x Bicalcarata: A Unique Hybrid Carnivorous Plant

Introduction:

The Nepenthes Mirabilis China x Bicalcarata hybrid blends the unique traits of both parent species, resulting in a stunning and adaptable pitcher plant. Nepenthes Mirabilis is known for its wide-ranging adaptability and fast growth, while Nepenthes Bicalcarata is notable for its large, fang-like structures beneath the pitcher lid. This hybrid typically produces pitchers with both the fanged characteristics of Bicalcarata and the sleek, tubular shape of Mirabilis.

History:

Nepenthes Mirabilis is widely distributed across Southeast Asia and into parts of China, making it one of the most common Nepenthes species. Nepenthes Bicalcarata is native to the lowland rainforests of Borneo, where it thrives in hot and humid conditions. By combining these two species, growers have produced a robust hybrid that can tolerate a wide range of conditions, while still maintaining the striking fanged pitchers of Bicalcarata.

Care Outline:

• Light: Nepenthes Mirabilis China x Bicalcarata thrives in bright, indirect light. It can tolerate some direct sunlight, but too much intense light may scorch the leaves and pitchers. Aim for 10,000 to 20,000 lux for best growth and pitcher production.

• Water: This hybrid prefers consistently moist but well-draining soil. Water using distilled, rainwater, or reverse osmosis water to avoid mineral buildup. Keep the soil evenly moist, but avoid allowing the plant to sit in standing water, as this can cause root rot.

• Humidity: High humidity is crucial for this hybrid, with levels ideally between 70% to 90%. Regular misting or growing the plant in a terrarium or greenhouse will help maintain these conditions, ensuring proper pitcher formation and overall plant health.

• Temperature: As a lowland hybrid, Nepenthes Mirabilis China x Bicalcarata prefers warm temperatures. Daytime temperatures should range from 75°F to 90°F (24°C to 32°C), with nighttime temperatures no lower than 65°F (18°C). It will not tolerate prolonged exposure to cooler temperatures.

• Soil: Use a well-draining, loose soil mix that mimics the plant’s natural epiphytic environment. A blend of long-fiber sphagnum moss, perlite, and orchid bark is ideal for retaining moisture while allowing for proper drainage.

• Fertilizer: While this plant primarily absorbs nutrients from the insects it captures, you can mist the leaves with a diluted orchid fertilizer (1/4 strength) once a month during the growing season. Avoid pouring fertilizer into the pitchers, as this can harm the plant.

• Propagation: Stem cuttings are the most reliable method for propagating this hybrid. Ensure each cutting has at least one node and one leaf for successful rooting.

Light and Lux Rating:

For optimal growth, Nepenthes Mirabilis China x Bicalcarata requires bright, indirect light with a lux rating of 10,000 to 20,000 lux. Direct sunlight should be avoided, especially during midday, as it can cause leaf burn, while too little light will slow down growth and reduce pitcher formation.

• Natural Light: Place the plant near an east or north-facing window where it will receive bright, indirect light. Outdoor plants should be placed in partial shade.
• Artificial Light: If grown indoors under grow lights, use full-spectrum grow lights for 12–16 hours per day to encourage healthy growth and pitcher production.

Propagation:

1. Stem Cuttings:

• Best Time: Spring or early summer during the growing season.
• Steps:
  1. Take a cutting just below a node, ensuring the cutting has at least one leaf and one node.
  2. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone to encourage root growth.
  3. Place the cutting in a moist mix of sphagnum moss and perlite.
  4. Keep the cutting in high humidity by covering it with a plastic bag or placing it in a terrarium until roots develop.

2. Layering:

• Steps:
  1. Choose a healthy vine still attached to the mother plant.
  2. Wrap a node in moist sphagnum moss and secure it with plastic wrap.
  3. Once roots form, cut the stem from the mother plant and pot it in a well-draining soil mix.

Soil for Nepenthes Mirabilis China x Bicalcarata:

This hybrid requires a well-draining, loose soil mix that provides aeration while retaining some moisture. A suitable mix includes:

• Long-fiber sphagnum moss for moisture retention.
• Perlite or pumice for drainage and aeration.
• Orchid bark to add structure and air circulation around the roots.

This soil mix helps prevent waterlogging while keeping the roots healthy and oxygenated, ensuring optimal growth and pitcher development.

Fertilizing:

• While Nepenthes Mirabilis China x Bicalcarata captures most of its nutrients from insects, you can supplement with a diluted orchid fertilizer misted lightly onto the leaves once a month during the growing season.
• Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to salt buildup in the soil, which can damage the roots.
• Do not pour fertilizer into the pitchers, as this can cause damage and shorten the lifespan of the pitchers.

Repotting:

• When to Repot: Repot every 1–2 years, or when the plant outgrows its current container.
• Best Time: Early spring is the best time to repot, just before the active growing season begins.
• Steps:
  1. Carefully remove the plant from its pot and inspect the roots.
  2. If the roots are healthy, repot into a slightly larger container with fresh, well-draining soil.
  3. Water thoroughly after repotting and maintain high humidity to reduce transplant shock.

Pitcher Characteristics:

• Mirabilis Traits: Slender, tubular pitchers that range from green to reddish hues, with a smooth and sleek appearance.
• Bicalcarata Traits: Large pitchers with two prominent fang-like structures beneath the lid, which are thought to deter herbivores and help guide insects into the trap.

This hybrid may produce a variety of pitcher types, blending the features of both parent plants. Depending on the growing conditions, pitchers may display both fangs from Bicalcarata and the more tubular shape of Mirabilis.