About
*Heliamphora minor* is a small, widely cultivated pitcher plant, notable for its size within the genus and its adaptability in cultivation. It is endemic to the Auyán-tepui region of Venezuela.
Field notes
Morphology
The species has a nectar spoon that emerges on a narrow stalk, and the plant can exhibit varieties, such as H. minor var. pilosa, which is characterized by conspicuous hairs on the pitcher exterior.
Distribution & habitat
Endemic to Auyán-tepui in Venezuela.
Cultivation notes
It is typically grown in a terrarium or greenhouse under strong fluorescent or partial sunlight. The plant requires water free from added minerals and chemicals, high humidity (70%+), and a temperature range of 70–90 °F during the day, dropping by about 10 degrees at night. Suitable soil mixtures include washed sand, orchid bark, long fibered sphagnum moss, peat moss, and perlite.
History & etymology
The epithet minor means 'smaller' in Latin. Heliamphora minor is closely related to H. ciliata and H. pulchella.
Habitat
- Altitude
- 1,800–2,400 m
- Altitude class
- highland
- Native to
- Venezuela
Cultivation
- Difficulty
- intermediate
- Temperature
- Day 18–24°C / Night 8–15°C
- Humidity
- 70–90%
- Notes
- Small pitchers with hood-like lids. Auyán Tepui endemic.