Purple Pitcher Plant (Sarracenia purpurea): North American Carnivorous Native

Botanical Name: Sarracenia purpurea

Native to North America, this unusual carnivorous plant grows upright tubular leaves with hooded tops. "Pitchers" contain juices that lure insects—once inside, slippery slopes prevent escape, and the plant digests them.

Pitcher colors vary by subspecies. S.p. venosa has dark purplish-red pitchers with bright green hoods and prominent veins. S.p. purpurea is mostly purplish-red with green interior.

Flowering & Watering

No blooms? Young plants won't flower for a few years. Mature plants send up spectacular summer flowers on tall stems—colors vary (dark red, purple, pink).

Unquenchable thirst: pot in shallow container with drainage, set in saucer. Water from top, let flow through. Don't empty saucer—plant drinks that too.

Purple Pitcher Plant Care Quick Reference

• Origin: US East Coast & Southeastern Canada
• Height: 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
• Light: Bright light to full sun
• Water: Generous in growing season, evenly moist. Distilled water only—tap water chemicals/minerals harm it. Never let dry out.
• Humidity: Moderate to high. Use humidity tray.
• Temperature: Cool to average 60–70°F (16–21°C). Minimum 40°F (4°C) in winter.
• Soil: Nutrient-free, well-draining. 1:1 sphagnum peat moss:perlite/horticultural sand. NO potting soil or compost—kills the plant.
• Fertilizer: N/A
• Propagation: Divide crowded plants, or sow seeds in spring.