Heliamphora
Heliamphora
Heliamphora Benth. is a genus of carnivorous plants in the pitcher plant family (Sarraceniaceae). Approximately 25 species are currently recognized, occurring almost exclusively on the table mountains (tepuis) of the Guiana Shield in Venezuela and adjacent regions of Brazil and Guyana. The plants inhabit nutrient-poor, acidic environments at elevations ranging from about 1,000 to over 3,000 m, where they have adapted to the harsh conditions of these isolated highland plateaus. A large proportion of the species known today has been discovered and formally described only within the last 25 years, making Heliamphora one of the most actively expanding genera of carnivorous plants.
The genus is characterized by its upright pitcher-shaped leaves, which function as traps for insects and other small animals. Unlike most other pitcher plants, Heliamphora species lack a movable lid and instead possess a nectar-secreting nectar spoon at the apex of each pitcher. A drainage slit regulates the water level inside the pitchers, preventing heavy rainfall from washing captured prey out of the trap. Digestion is carried out primarily by microorganisms living within the pitcher fluid, although some species also produce their own digestive enzymes.
The long-term isolation of the tepuis has resulted in an exceptionally high degree of endemism. Many species are restricted to a single mountain and differ markedly in growth form, pitcher morphology, and floral characteristics. As a result, Heliamphora represents one of the most remarkable examples of adaptive evolution and geographic isolation among carnivorous plants.
Heliamphora "Black Cherry"
A very beautyful hybrid or a mutant of Heliamphora heterodoxa?This originates from H. heterodoxa seeds that possibly were cross pollinated with something else from my greenhouse by an insect?I consider to register it as Heliamphora "Black Cherry"The lids are almost black and glossy!Very nice!
Heliamphora "Godzilla"
The name says it all!This cultivar is monstrous to say at least. Easily by far the biggest Heliamphora I have ever seen and I've seen and grown quite a lot!Young plants of this unique cultivar are available. Some with juvenile leaves and a few with first adult ones. Very limited. First come first serve!
Heliamphora "Mickey"
Most likely a natural hybrid of Heliamphora ionasi and Heliamphora elongata. Very beautiful selected clone with very prominet lid.
Heliamphora "Peter Pan"
Absolutely stunning and unique plant!A mutation that does not form adult pitchers. The largest juvenile plant I had so far was 40 cm in diameter and was flowering from the juvenile rosette!!!Only very few flowering size plants are available that were propagated by division from the mother plant. First come - first serve!
Heliamphora "Rocket
One of my most extreme crosses with Heliamphora sarracenioides.Only a few young plants available.
Heliamphora chimantensis (Chimanta, Venezuela)
Easy, fast growing, and readily clumping species from the Chimanta Massif in Venezuela. Heliamphora chimantensis grows at elevations of 1900-2100 meters and is known from the top of the Chimanta and Apacara Tepui where it grows in open, poorly drained areas among sparse vegetation. It is noted for forming huge colonies of many individuals tightly packed in a matt that often exceed several meters in width and are the result of natural division over time rather than seeding. The shape of the pitchers is upright and the color is yellowish green turning red at maturity. A large V shape slit is present at the front that aids with drainage. The nectar spoon is near vertical and bright red with irregularly shaped nectar gland patches. It is said in habitat the plants produce so much nectar that their scent can be detected from a few meters away. Although wild specimen can reach 50cm high and a single colony can be as wide as 6 meters, in cultivations plants stay much smaller, rarely attaining more than 20cm in height and remaining manageable in width. Highly recommended for beginners, and truly a joy as it matures into a sizable clump. (Wistuba, A T Carow & P Harbarth, 2002)
Heliamphora ciliata (Lowland)
Ever heard of a lowland Heliamphora? Meet Heliamphora ciliata! It is the only Heliamphora known exclusively from sub-montane regions. Found in a few swampy meadows north-east of Aprada Tepui in the Gran Sabana at elevation of around 900m, this species grows in permanently moist to inundated soils among low growing vegetation. The name ciliata refers to the tufts of hairs on the back of the nectar spoon and along the back of the pitcher mid-rib. The interior of the pitchers is also lined in two distinctive types of hairs, a shorter and a longer one, that contribute to the overall hairy look of the plant. Pitchers easily color red in bright light and are noted for not having a drainage hole. Instead a narrow slit is present at the front of the pitcher which regulates water level in a manner similar to chimantensis, minor, and pulchella which are closely related. The oval spoon comes off a triangular neck and is typically held at a 45 degree angle above the pitcher opening. Small colonies of ciliata up to 35cm in width can be found in habitat, and similarly the plant readily clumps in cultivation, forming attractive mounds over time. Although it can reach 20cm height in nature, it is usually shorter in cultivation. This easy, fast growing, temperature tolerant species comes highly recommended. Excellent beginner plant! (Wistuba, Nerz & A. Fleischm. 2009)
Heliamphora Cyclops
A very impressive and well-known variety by the late Andy Smith,this cross is known for its extremely pronounced lids .
Heliamphora elongata (Ilu Tepui)
Named for its graceful, elongated, slender pitchers, this Heliamphora is one of the most distinctive members of the genus and one of the most resilient! It is known from the summits and slopes of Ilu, Tramen, and Karaurin Tepui where it grows at altitudes of 1800-2600m. The plant is widely distributed in this habitat and often forms dense populations. It tends to grow in crevices, gullies, and cracks in the otherwise barren, inhospitable landscape of the mountain tops, typically in plant communities comprised of many different species of tepui flora that provide mutual shelter from the wind, rain, cold, and solar radiation. In this stark landscape where at night temperatures can be near freezing, the plants seem to thrive. This said, elongata grows slowly and rarely holds more than a few live pitchers which are surrounded by many dead ones (perhaps this aids in protecting the living parts of the plant from the elements). Pitchers can be up to 35cm in nature and can attain similar size in cultivation though typically only in very old specimen. The upper section of the pitchers is noticeably elongated compared to other species in the genus. Though almost always a bright vibrant red in the wild, in cultivation the plants tend to be a little greener. The spoons are always red, large, extending over the pitcher opening on a relatively flat plane, and with a pronounced triangular slit in the front. Though their shape can be somewhat variable, they can still be used to positively identify the species. Drainage hole is present in the mid-section. Truly a remarkable species, Heliamphora elongata is generally recommended for advanced growers. Its slow growth rate and tendency to have different morphology at different points of its maturity make it a very interesting subject in the collection but one that requires patience and dedication. (Nerz, J., 2004)
Heliamphora elongata (Karaurin Tepui)
Named for its graceful, elongated, slender pitchers, this Heliamphora is one of the most distinctive members of the genus and one of the most resilient! It is known from the summits and slopes of Ilu, Tramen, and Karaurin Tepui where it grows at altitudes of 1800-2600m. The plant is widely distributed in this habitat and often forms dense populations. It tends to grow in crevices, gullies, and cracks in the otherwise barren, inhospitable landscape of the mountain tops, typically in plant communities comprised of many different species of tepui flora that provide mutual shelter from the wind, rain, cold, and solar radiation. In this stark landscape where at night temperatures can be near freezing, the plants seem to thrive. This said, elongata grows slowly and rarely holds more than a few live pitchers which are surrounded by many dead ones (perhaps this aids in protecting the living parts of the plant from the elements). Pitchers can be up to 35cm in nature and can attain similar size in cultivation though typically only in very old specimen. The upper section of the pitchers is noticeably elongated compared to other species in the genus. Though almost always a bright vibrant red in the wild, in cultivation the plants tend to be a little greener. The spoons are always red, large, extending over the pitcher opening on a relatively flat plane, and with a pronounced triangular slit in the front. Though their shape can be somewhat variable, they can still be used to positively identify the species. Drainage hole is present in the mid-section. Truly a remarkable species, Heliamphora elongata is generally recommended for advanced growers. Its slow growth rate and tendency to have different morphology at different points of its maturity make it a very interesting subject in the collection but one that requires patience and dedication. (Nerz, J., 2004)
Heliamphora exappendiculata (Amuri Tepui)
A fantastic, wide-spread species from the Chimanta Massif and Aprada and Araopan Tepui. The name of the species refers to its lack of a nectar spoon, instead the leaf has a recessed bubble-like structure at the tip that holds the nectaries. Very cool! Heliamphora exappendiculata is found at elevations between 1700-2100m and is most abundant in cliff side habitats where the plants grow directly attached to permanently moist surfaces at seepage sites and by streams and waterfalls. In these situations the pitchers tend to grow upturned on a short scrambling rhizome with a skirt of dead foliage hanging down. It is one of the few taxa in the genus that appears to favor shaded conditions such as gullies, gorges, and canyons, though it is also found in brighter, more exposed locations often among shrubby vegetation. Therefore, color can vary dramatically between a pale green or buttery yellow often suffused with pinks and reds in partial light, to a vibrant peach color and even pure red in full sun. The wide pitcher opening serves a dual purpose of acting as a landing zone for potential insect pray, but also for collecting various organic debris which may serve as a secondary source of nutrients. Both in nature and cultivation, H. exappendiculata can vary in size. Some clones remain fairly compact while others can reach as tall as 35cm (though usually no more than 25cm). This is a fast growing, readily offsetting species that is easy to care for and can often be grown in lower light than typical of the genus. The numerous selections available make acquiring different clones both worthwhile and fun! A must for a well-rounded Heliamphora collection! (Nerz & Wistuba 2006)
Heliamphora exappendiculata (Apacapa)
A very beautiful form of Apacapa Tepui.The plants are smaller than other origins and densely hairy on the outside of the pitcher.
Heliamphora exappendiculata (Aprada Tepui)
Very few divisions only. Was never offered before. Not in vitro!
Heliamphora exappendiculata (Chimanta Tepui)
A fantastic, wide-spread species from the Chimanta Massif and Aprada and Araopan Tepui. The name of the species refers to its lack of a nectar spoon, instead the leaf has a recessed bubble-like structure at the tip that holds the nectaries. Very cool! Heliamphora exappendiculata is found at elevations between 1700-2100m and is most abundant in cliff side habitats where the plants grow directly attached to permanently moist surfaces at seepage sites and by streams and waterfalls. In these situations the pitchers tend to grow upturned on a short scrambling rhizome with a skirt of dead foliage hanging down. It is one of the few taxa in the genus that appears to favor shaded conditions such as gullies, gorges, and canyons, though it is also found in brighter, more exposed locations often among shrubby vegetation. Therefore, color can vary dramatically between a pale green or buttery yellow often suffused with pinks and reds in partial light, to a vibrant peach color and even pure red in full sun. The wide pitcher opening serves a dual purpose of acting as a landing zone for potential insect pray, but also for collecting various organic debris which may serve as a secondary source of nutrients. Both in nature and cultivation, H. exappendiculata can vary in size. Some clones remain fairly compact while others can reach as tall as 35cm (though usually no more than 25cm). This is a fast growing, readily offsetting species that is easy to care for and can often be grown in lower light than typical of the genus. The numerous selections available make acquiring different clones both worthwhile and fun! A must for a well-rounded Heliamphora collection! The form from Chimanta grows on vertical rock-faces. Pitchers are wider than in the form from Amuri. (Nerz & Wistuba 2006)
Heliamphora folliculata (Aparaman Tepui, Ven.)
One of the most recognizable species of Heliamphora because of its large tubular pitchers and unusual spoon that contains a hallow chamber for storing nectar. Found on top of the Los Testigos chain of tepuis at elevations of 1700-2400m, this Heliamphora braves the elements in the mutual shelter of dense scrub vegetation. It prefers permanently wet surfaces such as seepage sites and near waterfalls in sunny and exposed areas. The pitchers are long and tubular with a minimal narrowing at the waist where a drainage hole is present to regulate the water contained within. In cross section, the leaves are often kidney shaped. The unique concave spoon emerges directly from the back of the pitcher with the front extended over the pitcher opening, while a hallow chamber is present at the back and serves to store nectar. The color is golden yellow in young leaves suffusing to a uniform orange, pink, and red in mature ones. The foliage is typically held at an acute angle up to 45 degrees and often rests on surrounding vegetation but plants have the same growth habit even when no such vegetation is present. It is believed that this is an adaptation to keep the center of the rosette exposed to sunlight and free of competing vegetation. In cultivation this means the plants need a good amount of room to spread horizontally and should not be kept too close to other specimen in the collection. Though folliculata is said to reach no more than 30cm in nature, that size can be easily attained by some clones in cultivation and plants do get much wider as they clump, making this species one of the most robust. Easy to care for, vibrantly colored, and fast growing, this Heliamphora is great for beginners, though its growth habit means a good amount of room should be provided. (Wistuba, A., P. Harbarth & T. Carow, 2001)
Heliamphora folliculata (Kamakawarai Tepui, Ven.)
One of the most recognizable species of Heliamphora because of its large tubular pitchers and unusual spoon that contains a hallow chamber for storing nectar. Found on top of the Los Testigos chain of tepuis at elevations of 1700-2400m, this Heliamphora braves the elements in the mutual shelter of dense scrub vegetation. It prefers permanently wet surfaces such as seepage sites and near waterfalls in sunny and exposed areas. The pitchers are long and tubular with a minimal narrowing at the waist where a drainage hole is present to regulate the water contained within. In cross section, the leaves are often kidney shaped. The unique concave spoon emerges directly from the back of the pitcher with the front extended over the pitcher opening, while a hallow chamber is present at the back and serves to store nectar. The color is golden yellow in young leaves suffusing to a uniform orange, pink, and red in mature ones. The foliage is typically held at an acute angle up to 45 degrees and often rests on surrounding vegetation but plants have the same growth habit even when no such vegetation is present. It is believed that this is an adaptation to keep the center of the rosette exposed to sunlight and free of competing vegetation. In cultivation this means the plants need a good amount of room to spread horizontally and should not be kept too close to other specimen in the collection. Though folliculata is said to reach no more than 30cm in nature, that size can be easily attained by some clones in cultivation and plants do get much wider as they clump, making this species one of the most robust. Easy to care for, vibrantly colored, and fast growing, this Heliamphora is great for beginners, though its growth habit means a good amount of room should be provided. (Wistuba, A., P. Harbarth & T. Carow, 2001)
Heliamphora folliculata (Murosipan Tepui, Ven.)
One of the most recognizable species of Heliamphora because of its large tubular pitchers and unusual spoon that contains a hallow chamber for storing nectar. Found on top of the Los Testigos chain of tepuis at elevations of 1700-2400m, this Heliamphora braves the elements in the mutual shelter of dense scrub vegetation. It prefers permanently wet surfaces such as seepage sites and near waterfalls in sunny and exposed areas. The pitchers are long and tubular with a minimal narrowing at the waist where a drainage hole is present to regulate the water contained within. In cross section, the leaves are often kidney shaped. The unique concave spoon emerges directly from the back of the pitcher with the front extended over the pitcher opening, while a hallow chamber is present at the back and serves to store nectar. The color is golden yellow in young leaves suffusing to a uniform orange, pink, and red in mature ones. The foliage is typically held at an acute angle up to 45 degrees and often rests on surrounding vegetation but plants have the same growth habit even when no such vegetation is present. It is believed that this is an adaptation to keep the center of the rosette exposed to sunlight and free of competing vegetation. In cultivation this means the plants need a good amount of room to spread horizontally and should not be kept too close to other specimen in the collection. Though folliculata is said to reach no more than 30cm in nature, that size can be easily attained by some clones in cultivation and plants do get much wider as they clump, making this species one of the most robust. Easy to care for, vibrantly colored, and fast growing, this Heliamphora is great for beginners, though its growth habit means a good amount of room should be provided. (Wistuba, A., P. Harbarth & T. Carow, 2001)
Heliamphora heterodoxa x ionasii
Very impressive hybrid. Maybe the best hybrid I know. Gets really huge!It is so easy that some collectors keep it in the bog bed over the summer or keep it completely without special protection between sarracenias on balcony or terrace.The perfect starter plant!
Heliamphora hispida x (heterodoxa x ionasi) (?)
Surprisingly, the seedlings of this cross are deep red and seigen a very unexpected lid shape from my point of view. I can therefore not 100% exclude a mix-up.However, in my opinion, the result is much too good to be discarded!The plants are simply beautiful!
Heliamphora huberi (Amuri Tepui)
Little known, though widely distributed, Heliamphora huberi is endemic to the Chimanta Massif and is present on several of the tepuis and associated areas. The name honors Dr. Otto Huber, a botanist who has contributed greatly to the knowledge of tepui flora, and who collected the type specimen on Angassima Tepui in 1986. Heliamphora huberi grows in partially shaded habitat among dense low-growing vegetation at elevation between 1850-2200m. The plants tend to form small clusters of offshoots up to 40cm across that are often scattered, though large strands are also found on Akopan Tepui. The distinctive feature of this species is its oval nectar spoon that comes off a short neck-like elongation at the back of the pitcher and has a pronounced upturned appendage at the tip. The pitchers themselves are up to 30cm tall in the wild (though much smaller in cultivation) and their morphology suggest a hybridogenic origin between a species akin to H. heterodoxa and perhaps pulchella. Very interesting! Their color is a pale green which suffuses to red or purple towards the margins, with faint red or purple veining in the interior. When exposed to more light and as the pitchers mature they often become redder. This wonderful species deserves to be grown more widely. Though not a fast grower, it’s a beautiful addition to the collection with its curiously shaped spoons. A mature plant can look very striking.(Fleischmann, A., A. Wistuba & J. Nerz, 2009)
Heliamphora huberi (Angasima) x folliculata Aparaman
Heliamphora huberi hybrids are often characterized by intense dark red tones. The cross with Heliamphora folliculata promises vigor and an interesting pitcher shape.
Heliamphora ionasi "Zappergeck" x exappendiculata "Ewoks
A new cross of two particularly small and beautiful Heliamphora cultivars.I have very high expectations of this cross!
Heliamphora ionasi (Ilu Tepui, Venezuela)
Truly one of the most magnificent members of the genus and one of the biggest! Though often slow growing, H. ionasi is worth the wait, and a fully mature plant can be the crown jewel of the Heliamphora collection. The name commemorates Jonah Boyan, a member of Maguires’ expedition that led to the discovery of the species, and represents his Latinized first name. The known range of the species is between 1800-2600m in the area between Ilu and Tramen Tepui in Venezuela. The plants are most abundant in open boggy clearings along the sides of the Ilu-Tramen valley, though they can also compete successfully with the dense vegetation of the cloud forest floor, and even grow directly on permanently wet cliff sides in a manner similar to H. exappendiculata and H. uncinata. Pitcher size varies greatly depending on habitat- some are only 20-30cm in length, while others can be up to 50cm long and 18cm wide! The pitcher opening is exceptionally wide and often circular. This may serve the dual purpose of trapping pray and collecting organic debris as an additional source of nutrients. In some cases, the opening is the only part of the plant that is visible above the surrounding vegetation. The pitchers are typically held at an acute angle away from the apex, which might help keep the growth point exposed to light. In cultivation this means the plants like to sprawl, so ample space should be provided. Long downward facing hairs up to 11mm (longest in the genus) line the pitcher interior. They come off distinctive bumps which can be used to positively identify the species from hybrids with H. elongata and H. arenicola. A drainage hole is present at the narrow waist. Pitcher color is typically a vibrant peach suffused with pinks and reds even in lower light (though they can be completely red or green too). The nectar spoon is red, oval, and can be variously angled towards or away from the opening. Although this has never been observed in nature, Heliamphora ionasi pitcher are certainly voluminous enough to potentially trap rodent pray! These majestic, brightly colored, and elegantly shaped plants are a must for any serious collector of the genus. (Maguire, B., 1978)