Nepenthes hamata has the infamous "toothed" peristome with the fierce looking pitcher. This is a must for any Nepenthes enthusiast. Even the lid has tentacle, medusa-esque, looking hairs growing off of it. The pitchers are usually somewhat striped with a brownish-red tinge to them and a maroon red peristome. The upper pitchers are green with more vicious, hook-like teeth. The pitcher above is a lower pitcher. I grow two varieties that look similar. I did see a photo at Terraforums chat room of a hairy variety of N. hamata. The pitcher was entirely covered with "fur". That's the only time I've ever seen it or heard about that variety. I don't know if it will be available for resale or if it is in any type of tissue culture cultivation. Most plants that are available are between 3"-4" in diameter and pitcher up readily upon arrival. Some people have said this is somewhat difficult to grow. I've had no problems with this plant. Even my little guy is doing fine. This is an easy and stunning species to care for that is becoming more readily available and affordable. Nepenthes hamata is a definite must for the collection!

Cultivation: easy; moderate grower
Market availability: size 2 to size 3; available and becoming more common
Species variability: typical, "hairy" version
$ / size:  expensive $50.00 and up
Cuttings: none available for trade
Sex: unknown