Parrot pitcherplant - Sarracenia psittacina (Care, Characteristics, Distribution, Images)

Parrot pitcherplant

The parrot pitcherplant is native to North America and is scientifically known as Sarracenia psittacina. It is a carnivorous plant that usually captures water arthropods and tadpoles as its prey.

Scientific classification

Species

Parrot pitcherplant (Sarracenia psittacina)

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15 cm

Plant Height

10 cm to 50 cm

Spread

Green, Red, Purple

Leaf Color

2.5 cm to 8 cm

Flower Size

Red, Purple

Flower Color

Green, Red, Purple

Stem Color

Semi-evergreen

Leaf type

15 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Slow

Growth Rate

Images of Parrot pitcherplant

Quickly Identify Parrot pitcherplant

Pitcher-like leaves for trapping prey in a dense rosette close to the ground.

Red-purple flowers, 2 inches (5 cm) in size, resembling upside-down umbrellas on tall scapes.

Low rosette leaves with vibrant green, red, and white patterns, featuring downward-pointing hairs.

Underground rhizome stem, 1 foot (30 cm) in length, providing a sturdy base for growth.

External nectar and bright colors attract insects onto the pitcher leaves for carnivorous feeding.

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Care Guide for Parrot pitcherplant

Twice per week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Parrot pitcherplant thrives in wet, humid environments, requiring consistent hydration and typically being watered twice a week. As an evergreen, it retains leaves year-round and demands steady watering, even during cooler months, to maintain its lush vitality.

Fertilize: Parrot pitcherplant thrives in nutrient-poor, moisture-retaining soil and relies on catching insects for sustenance. Avoid using fertilizer, except in cases of mineral deficiency. For outdoor summer care, it can self-feed. Supplement with products designed for Venus flytraps if necessary, like dried crickets.

Pruning: Parrot pitcherplant thrives with early spring pruning, focusing on dead leaves for healthier growth and improved air circulation. This reduces fungal infection risks. Using sterilized tools protects against disease, maintaining the plant's health and aesthetic appeal for effective insect attraction and trapping.

Propagation: Parrot pitcherplant thrives in boggy, nutrient-poor environments and can be propagated by dividing rhizomes or offsets during dormancy. Ensure each section has a growth point, and replant in a peat moss and perlite or sand mix, maintaining high humidity and moisture for optimal growth.

Repotting: Repot parrot pitcherplant every 2-3 years in early spring using nutrient-poor, acidic soil in a slightly larger pot with good drainage. Post-repotting, maintain high humidity and refrain from fertilizing to promote recovery and healthy pitcher development.

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