Heliamphora nutans was first discovered in 1838 by Robert and Richard Schomburgk on the slopes of Mount Roraima, located in what was then British Guiana (now Guyana). Although they did not collect specimens at the time, the plant was formally described by George Bentham in 1840, making it the type species of the genus Heliamphora. It was later introduced to England in 1881 by plant hunter David Burke, who collected specimens from the same region.
 
Habitat Overview
Heliamphora nutans thrives in highland environments on the tepuis (table-top mountains) of the Guayana Shield, particularly in cool, humid, and foggy conditions. It prefers light shade and grows in well-drained, loose soils, often composed of sphagnum moss and perlite. The plant is adapted to boggy, acidic substrates and benefits from high humidity and consistent moisture. In cultivation, it performs well in terrariums or climate-controlled greenhouses with bright indirect light and cooler night temperatures.
 
Range and Distribution
Heliamphora nutans is native to the border region of Venezuela, Brazil, and Guyana, and is found on several tepuis including Mount Roraima, Kukenán, Yuruaní, Maringma, Tramen, Ilu, and Wei Assipu. It is one of the few Heliamphora species with a relatively broad distribution across multiple tepuis, although it remains endemic to the Guayana Highlands. Its altitudinal range typically spans 1800 to 2800 meters above sea level, depending on the specific tepui.
 
Physical Characteristics
Heliamphora nutans is a medium-sized carnivorous plant with urn-shaped pitchers that are green with orange-red tints, flaring wide at the top. The pitchers feature a small, circular nectar spoon, typically dark red, which helps attract insects. The traps are short and broad, with a pronounced hip and a slightly sweet fragrance. Flowers are bell-shaped, usually red or pink, and tend to nod on tall scapes—hence the species name nutans, meaning “nodding". The plant divides regularly, forming loose clumps, and is considered slow-growing but vigorous under proper conditions.