Nepenthes truncata is a tropical pitcher plant endemic to the Philippines. It is known from the islands of Dinagat, Leyte, and Mindanao. The species grows at an elevation of 0–1500 m above sea level. Nepenthes truncata is characterised by its heart-shaped (truncate) leaves and very large pitchers, which can reach up to 40 cm in height.
Nepenthes truncata
An epiphytic N. truncata from the Pantaron Range near San Fernando
A recently opened pitcher with typical colouration from the Pantaron Range, Mindanao
A pitcher with strongly developed peristome colouration, typical of older pitchers, Pantaron Range, Mindanao
Pitcher plants are several different carnivorous plants that have modified leaves known as pitfall traps—a prey-trapping mechanism featuring a deep cavity filled with digestive liquid. The traps of what are considered to be "true" pitcher plants are formed by specialized leaves. The plants attract and drown the prey with nectar.
Scanning electron micrograph inner surface of pitcher plant
Pitcher plants growing in a bog in Pennsylvania
Nepenthes muluensis pitchers hang from tendrils. (This specimen is cultivated.)
Most North American pitcher plants belong to the genus Sarracenia.