Hardy North American carnivorous plant with trumpet-shaped pitchers, requires full sun and winter dormancy

Sarracenia, known as pitcher plant, is a genus of carnivorous perennials with about 11 species native to open, peaty to sandy bogs, fens, and pine savannas in the eastern USA.

They capture and kill insects such as flies, ants, beetles, and wasps, as well as arachnids, by luring them into their trumpet-shaped pitchers (modified leaves) where the prey gets trapped and dies. The nutrients from the decomposed bodies are absorbed by the plant through special cells at the base of each pitcher.

This is a carnivorous perennial that grows up to 40 centimeters tall with slender, upright pitchers ending in ruffled lids. The pitchers emerge green and then turn dark pink with marbled lids and purple vein patterns. In spring, solitary, nodding, red flowers are produced on tall stalks. The species readily hybridize, which can make identification difficult.

Care

Pitcher plants need full sun during the growing season and cold temperatures during winter dormancy, which is why they simply do not thrive as ordinary houseplants. NEVER use regular potting soil or fertilizer; this can kill the plant. Use nutrient-poor substrate of sphagnum moss and sand or perlite.

Place the pot in a tray with water to keep the soil constantly moist, and only water with distilled or rainwater. Protect from strong frosty winds.

Bring the pots indoors in winter with slightly reduced watering; the cold winter dormancy is crucial for the plant's survival.

Winter dormancy is mandatory; without a cold dormant period in winter, the pitcher plant will not survive long-term. Buy Pitcher Plant online!