Nepenthes Hirsuta is a tropical pitcher plant endemic to Borneo and is one of the smallest species of Pitcher plants. The local name for this plant is called monkey cup because in the tropics, monkeys are often seen drinking rainwater from these “pitchers”. However, if you are smaller than a monkey, you might want to watch out. While insects are the primary diet for Nepenthes.
This plant is able to survive on Ultramafic soil (soil that contains low phosphate but high Iron which is generally poisonous to many plants) with its predatory abilities. It is able to grow at an elevation of 200–1100 m and can be found in a wide range of habitats, including kerangas forest, mossy banks in lower montane forest, open areas, and disturbed vegetation on lower ridges.
Photo by amazingborneo’s Instagram