Yellow trumpets (Sarracenia alata)

Yellow trumpets

Also known as: Pale trumpet

Yellow trumpets (Sarracenia alata) are members of the so-called trumpet family of carnivorous pitcher plants. These North American natives live almost exclusively in the permanently wet longleaf pine savannas of Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama. They can be found in various different colors and are often striped. Insects that fall into the "pitcher" become trapped and are slowly digested.

Scientific classification

Species

Yellow trumpets (Sarracenia alata)

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Herb

Plant Type

Spring

Bloom Time

41 cm to 61 cm

Plant Height

15 cm

Spread

Yellow, Green

Leaf Color

Brown, Copper

Fruit Color

Yellow, Green, Purple, Red, Brown, Gold

Flower Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

15 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Yellow trumpets

Quickly Identify Yellow trumpets

Pitcher-shaped leaves with reddish veins and nectar droplets attract insects.

Flowers have 3 bracts, 5 sepals, with petals ranging from 2 to 4 inches.

Dry capsules mature in 5 months, splitting to release pear-shaped seeds.

Tubular yellow pitchers with vertical veins and slippery interior due to stiff hairs.

Large flowers suspended on leafless stalks, prominent during spring bloom.

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Care Guide for Yellow trumpets

Twice per week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Yellow trumpets thrives in humid, damp environments, requiring watering twice a week. Found in boggy areas, it benefits from regular rainfall and moist soil. Its carnivorous nature means it needs water not only for hydration but also for trapping prey.

Fertilize: Yellow trumpets thrives in nutrient-poor, moisture-retaining soil and benefits from minimal fertilizer. Outdoor exposure in summer aids its natural feeding. Avoid meat; instead, use specific supplements like dried crickets for extra nutrients.

Pruning: Yellow trumpets thrives with strategic pruning to enhance growth and appearance. Key methods involve removing dead leaves and trimming old growth, ideally between early and late spring. Sterilize tools to prevent disease, ensuring a healthier plant overall.

Propagation: Yellow trumpets thrives in boggy, acidic soils in the Southeastern U.S., featuring pitcher-like leaves for trapping insects. For propagation, surface-sow seeds on wet sphagnum moss or peat, ensuring high humidity and bright, indirect light. Protect seedlings from fungal infections; patience is needed for slow germination.

Repotting: Repot yellow trumpets every 2-3 years in early spring to promote growth. Use a slightly larger, well-draining container, maintaining moist soil and partial sunlight post-repotting for optimal conditions for this unique carnivorous plant.

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