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plants
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| coastal plants |
| Raffles'
pitcher plant Nepenthes rafflesiana Family Nepenthaceae updated Dec 10 Where seen? In Singapore, it is usually found in adinandra belukar, forest edges or on seaward sides of our natural cliffs on many of our offshore islands. This plant has the largest pitchers in Singapore. Features: A climber that grows to 10m long or more, clambering over trees and other plants with tendrils. Pitchers are vase-shaped or narrowly funnel-shaped (20-35cm long), green at the base and purplish-red at the mouth with two prominent ribs. It may have ground pitchers which are urn- or goblet-shaped (rounder) (5-25cm long) with two fringed wings. Male and female flowers are borne on separate plants, in tall bunches (inflorescence). The fruits are capsules that contain thread-like seeds which disperse in the wind. Pit of Death: The pitchers are modified leaves, each with a tiny lid. Nectar is secreted by glands under the lid or at the lip of the pitcher, which are colourful too. These attract insects. The pitcher's lip is smooth and inner surface covered with loose scales of wax that clog up the feet of insects. Thus a small misstep causes the hapless insect to slide into the fluid in the pitcher, where it eventually drowns. The resulting nutrients in the fluid are absorbed by the plant. Human uses: According to Burkill, the tough stems of pitcher plants (species not specified) are used in rope making, while the roots are used to treat stomach aches, dysentery and in poultices. The stem may be used to treat coughs and fevers. Status and threats: The plant is listed as 'Vulnerable' in the Red List of threatened plants of Singapore. |
 Sentosa, Jun 09 |
 Sentosa, Aug 09 |
 Sentosa, Jun 09 
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 Sentosa, Jun 09 |
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Sentosa, Jun 09 |
St. John's Island, Aug 09 |
 St. John's Island, Aug 09 |
 Pulau Tekukor, Oct 10 |
 Pulau Tekukor, Oct 10 |
 Pulau Tekukor, Oct 10 |
 Sentosa, Dec 10 |
 Sentosa, Dec 10 |
 Sentosa, Dec 10  |
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References
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Singapore University Press. 215 pp.|
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