Nepenthes ‘Diana’ is a breathtaking hybrid tropical pitcher plant admired for its brilliantly coloured, flared pitchers and vigorous growth habit. Thought to be a complex hybrid involving Nepenthes maxima and Nepenthes ventricosa (or closely related species), this cultivar showcases the elegance and structure of maxima with the hardiness and adaptability of ventricosa.

The plant produces glossy, lanceolate leaves that give rise to long tendrils, each ending in an exquisite pitcher of rich crimson to deep maroon, often with speckled green undertones and a wide, fluted peristome. The peristome rim is heavily ribbed and highly reflective, appearing lacquered under bright light. Mature pitchers can grow to 15–20 cm long, with a graceful, curving silhouette and dramatic colouring that deepens as the plant ages.

Lush, bold, and resilient, Nepenthes ‘Diana’ is a truly regal hybrid — a statement piece that embodies both tropical drama and graceful sophistication.

Nepenthes ‘Diana’ – Care Guide

Light

Thrives in bright, indirect light or filtered sunlight. A few hours of gentle morning or late-afternoon sun will enhance the deep red tones of the pitchers. Avoid intense midday sunlight, which can scorch the leaves, and deep shade, which may reduce pitcher production and vibrancy.

Watering

Keep the substrate consistently moist but not waterlogged. Always use rainwater, distilled water, or reverse osmosis (RO) water, as tap water minerals can harm the plant. Do not allow the soil to dry completely, and ensure good drainage to prevent stagnant water around the roots.

Temperature and Humidity

• Temperature: Prefers 22–30 °C during the day and 15–20 °C at night. Avoid temperatures below 12 °C.

• Humidity: Requires moderate to high humidity (60–90%) to maintain healthy leaves and pitchers. Mist daily or use a humidifier, especially in drier environments, to encourage consistent pitcher formation.

Soil and Potting

Use a light, acidic, free-draining mix such as sphagnum moss combined with perlite or orchid bark. This allows air circulation while retaining the moisture Nepenthes roots need. Repot every 1–2 years in spring to refresh the mix and maintain strong, healthy growth. Avoid fertilised or compacted soil.

Feeding

Nepenthes ‘Diana’ naturally catches insects such as flies, gnats, or ants. If grown indoors, you can feed a few pitchers monthly with small insects or a drop of diluted orchid fertiliser. Do not fertilise the soil directly — this plant derives nutrients exclusively through its pitchers.

Pruning and Maintenance

Remove old, dried pitchers and yellowing leaves to maintain a neat appearance and promote new growth. Trim long vines if necessary to manage shape and size. Wipe leaves occasionally with a damp cloth to remove dust and restore their glossy sheen.

Growth and Maturity

A moderate to fast-growing hybrid, Nepenthes ‘Diana’ typically reaches 60–90 cm in height indoors and can grow larger when given vertical support. It produces pitchers regularly under warm, bright, and humid conditions, rewarding growers with continuous colour and texture throughout the year.

Common Issues

• Pitchers not forming: Low humidity or insufficient light.

• Brown edges: Dry air or mineral build-up in water.

• Yellow leaves: Overwatering or cold stress.

• Pests: Occasionally aphids or mealybugs; treat promptly with neem oil or insecticidal soap if necessary.

Background and Benefits

Nepenthes ‘Diana’ is a horticultural hybrid bred to combine the striking pitcher form and size of Nepenthes maxima with the hardy, adaptable nature of Nepenthes ventricosa. The result is a vigorous and colourful hybrid that thrives in a wide range of tropical or household conditions while producing exceptionally showy pitchers.

The hybrid’s name, ‘Diana’, perfectly suits its appearance — graceful yet powerful, with pitchers that gleam like polished jewels. In addition to its ornamental appeal, this species functions as a natural insect trap, helping to control small pests while adding a vibrant tropical statement to your home or greenhouse.

Quick Care Summary

Light: Bright, indirect light; several hours of soft sun daily
Water: Keep soil evenly moist; use rain, distilled, or RO water only
Temperature: 22–30 °C days; 15–20 °C nights
Humidity: Moderate to high (60–90%)
Soil: Acidic, airy mix – sphagnum moss, perlite, orchid bark
Feed: Occasionally feed small insects or diluted orchid fertiliser into pitchers
Growth: Climbing or trailing habit, 60–90 cm; deep red and maroon pitchers with broad fluted peristome

⚠️ Note: Always use mineral-free water and avoid fertilising the soil directly to maintain root health.

Styling Tip

Display Nepenthes ‘Diana’ in a hanging basket, tall terrarium, or decorative pedestal planter where its dramatic pitchers can cascade naturally. Its red and green hues pair beautifully with darker foliage plants such as Philodendron ‘Dark Lord’ or silver-toned tropicals like Scindapsus pictus ‘Silver Hero’. Position it in bright, filtered light to highlight the rich tones of its pitchers — a true tropical showpiece that commands attention in any collection.