Nepenthes mirabilis var. globosa × N. ampullaria ‘Black Miracle’

Round-bellied pitchers, striped rims, and maroon-speckled leaves give this tropical pitcher plant plenty of personality—even between meals. Commonly sold as Nepenthes ventricosa × ampullaria ‘Black Miracle’, this hybrid offers the plump, flasklike traps that make ampullaria crosses so appealing, with a vigorous growth habit suited to a warm, bright growing space.

Care Guide

• Light: Bright gentle light, with some mild morning sun if gradually introduced. A grow light is useful if your windows are dim. Avoid abrupt exposure to hot afternoon sun.

• Water: Keep the growing medium consistently moist, allowing the surface to begin losing moisture before watering again. Water thoroughly and let excess drain; do not leave the pot standing in water.

• Water quality: Use distilled, reverse-osmosis, or clean rainwater. For Bay Area growers, these are the simplest reliable choices; a standard pitcher filter does not reliably remove dissolved minerals.

• Humidity: Aim for at least 50–60%, with higher humidity often helping pitcher development. Provide airflow in cabinets or enclosed growing spaces.

• Temperature: Warm household conditions suit it well, roughly 65–85°F. Protect from cold drafts and prolonged temperatures below 55°F.

• Growing medium: Use an airy, low-nutrient mixture such as long-fiber sphagnum moss and perlite. Avoid ordinary potting soil and mixes containing added fertilizer.

• Feeding: An occasional small insect in an established pitcher is sufficient. Never feed meat or add ordinary houseplant fertilizer to the pot.

• Seasonal care: No winter dormancy is required. Growth and pitcher production may slow when light or warmth decreases.