Question
QUESTION: I have a large unknown nepenthes (probably a miranda) that I know isn't getting nearly the light that it should, but it isn't the only one.  It IS the only one with leaves that are darkening and getting a "leathery" texture to them.  I've taken it down and crammed it near some shop lights for now, but is there anything else that may cause the leaves to do this?



ANSWER: Hi Brian,

The darker maroon color is very normal for N. x Miranda.  Their leaves normally have a heavy, leathery, sometimes crinkly appearance.  As long as the plant isn't developing dead spots on the leaves it sounds fine.  Getting it more light is a good thing also.  Miranda definitely likes it bright.

Good Growing!

Jeff Dallas
Sarracenia Northwest
http://www.cobraplant.com

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: No, these are softer, isolated splotches where the leaf is not healthy at all.

Answer
Hi Brian,

Inspect the leaves carefully to make sure you don't have some kind of pest on them such as thrips, whitefly or scale.  If you do, spray for them.  Any houseplant insecticide will be safe on Nepenthes.  Also check for white patches.  Although not common, you could have some kind of fungal disease going on.  If you see that, clip off affected leaves, and spray with a fungicide.  Neem based products and Chlorothonil can work well.

By next week we should have the ability to have questioners post pictures through Allexperts.  Check back and post a photo for me if you can.  This would help with the diagnosis quite a bit.

Good Growing!

Jeff Dallas
Sarracenia Northwest
http://www.cobraplant.com