How to identify Hooded pitcher plant (Sarracenia minor)

How to identify Hooded pitcher plant (Sarracenia minor)

Hooded pitcher plant, also known as Pitcher-plant rainbow trumpet, Spotted pitcherplant

Hooded pitcher plant features a distinctive rosette arrangement of stemless, clump-forming leaves. These modified leaves, shaped into narrow, hollow cones approximately 1 to 2 feet (30 to 60 cm) tall, act as traps with alluring nectar and translucent 'windows' to ensnare insects. Overhead, a hood-like structure caps the cone. The plant exhibits unique upside-down umbrella-like yellow flowers atop tall stalks. Upon maturing, brown seed pods release seeds, furthering propagation primarily via underground rhizomes.

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type: Herb

Quickly Identify Hooded pitcher plant

Rosette arrangement of stemless, clump-forming leaves with trap-like hollow cones (1-2 feet / 30-60 cm tall).

Upside-down umbrella-like yellow flowers on tall stalks; nodding and light yellow, 2 1/2 inches (6.35 cm) tall.

Distinctive pitcher-shaped leaves up to 20 inches (50 cm) tall with purple veining and white 'windows'.

Fruit is a dehiscent capsule, 0.5-1 inch (1.27-2.54 cm) long, ripening from green to brownish, dry texture.

Maturing brown seed pods release seeds; propagation through underground rhizomes.

Detailed Traits of Hooded pitcher plant

Leaf Features

The leaves of hooded pitcher plant are green and form pitcher-shaped structures that can reach up to 20 inches (50 cm) in height. The upper part of the pitcher is expanded and domed, and is adorned with a striking pattern of purple veins and white blotches on the rear. These white blotches resemble windows, which are distinctive features for identification. The texture of the leaves is smooth, with a glossy appearance, and the veining pattern adds a unique and striking visual element.

Learn About the Leaf Glossary

Flower Features

The flowers of hooded pitcher plant are nodding and light yellow, measuring approximately 2 1/2 inches (6.35 cm) in height. These blossoms are borne on stems that are shorter than the pitchers themselves. The petals are arranged in a manner that creates a delicate and slightly drooping appearance. The blooming period for these flowers spans from March to May, making them a vibrant and identifiable feature during the spring season.

Learn About the Flower Glossary

Fruit Features

The fruit of hooded pitcher plant is a dehiscent capsule that splits open upon maturity to release its numerous seeds. Typically, the capsule is elongated and can reach a size of approximately 0.5 to 1 inch (1.27 to 2.54 cm) in length. It starts as a green structure that ripens to a brownish hue, becoming dry and woody in texture. This fruit's capsule is a frequently observed feature after the flowering season, nestled among the plant's unique foliage.

Learn About the Fruit Glossary

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