Sarracenia purpurea (Purple Pitcher Plant)

Extremely cold-hardy, Sarracenia purpurea (Purple Pitcher Plant) is a carnivorous perennial prized for its evergreen, semi-erect, squat, green pitchers, up to 12 in. long (30 cm), flushed and veined burgundy-red. Unlike in erect pitcher plants, the lid does not shield the pitcher opening. It is erect, with a pair of lateral wings on each side. In spring, purple-red flowers, 2 in. across (5 cm), rise atop leafless stalks well above the pitchers. While Sarracenia pitchers usually live for a year, the pitchers of Sarracenia purpurea tend to survive for two years unless they are damaged by fire or excessively cold conditions. Pitcher Plant is very effective at trapping and killing insects. Lured by the attractive leaf color, insects that land on the lids get paralyzed by the nectar. They fall down into a digestive fluid at the bottom of the pitcher where they will decompose and nutrients get absorbed. This plant is best grown in the consistently moist soils of a bog garden or in containers. It is a great addition to the acid water garden.

• Grows up to 10-12 in. tall (25-30 cm) and 12-16 in. wide (30-40 cm).
• Thrives in full sun to partial shade in consistently moist, acid soil. Irrigate with lime-free water and do not fertilize plantings. Shelter from hot sun.
• Generally disease free. Keep an eye out for scale insects, mealybugs, aphids and tortrix moth.
• Propagate by seed or by division.
• Native to Canada, USA.