Spikes of dark maroon petals surround the bright lemon yellow central stigma and stamens on this native of the humid, hot lowland rainforests of southeast Asia. Growing in the nutrient-poor tree canopies, this genus has developed modified leaves called pitchers that contain bright colors, fragrances, and sweet nectar to attract insects, small birds, and rodents. Sharp hair-like growths inside the pitcher point downward ensuring ease of access and difficulty in escaping from the pitcher. Included in the water-like contents of the pitcher are tissue dissolving acids, enzymes and bacteria. Once dissolved the nitrogen and other nutrients supply the plant with these critical growth elements.