Sweet pitcherplant (Sarracenia rubra)

Sweet pitcherplant

Also known as: Red pitcherplant

Sweet pitcherplant (Sarracenia rubra) is a carnivorous plant native to the southeastern United States. It possesses a specially shaped leaf that is rolled into a tube-like trap and baited with nectar to attract insects. Larger insects such as wasps may be able to chew their way through the leaf to escape, but smaller insects are digested and absorbed by the plant.

Scientific classification

Species

Sweet pitcherplant (Sarracenia rubra)

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30 cm to 46 cm

Plant Height

30 cm to 45 cm

Spread

Green, Yellow, Gold, Brown

Leaf Color

1.9 cm to 3 cm

Flower Size

Yellow, Green, Red, Brown, Orange, Gold

Flower Color

Semi-evergreen

Leaf type

5 - 25 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring

Growth Season

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Sweet pitcherplant

Quickly Identify Sweet pitcherplant

Conical pitchers with red veining, reaching 12-24 inches (30-60 cm) tall.

Upside-down red-maroon flowers on 18-24 inch (45-60 cm) stalks from April to June.

Distinctive five-parted seed capsule, 0.5-1 inch (1.3-2.5 cm) long, releasing black seeds.

Narrow, marbled brown and green pitchers with lid, 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) tall.

Summer leaves metamorphose into pitchers, winter leaves are slender and linear.

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Care Guide for Sweet pitcherplant

Twice per week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 25 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Potting Mix, Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Sweet pitcherplant thrives in humid North American bogs, requiring twice-weekly watering for consistent moisture. It tolerates high water levels and moderate drought, benefiting from outdoor cultivation. Its carnivorous nature allows it to supplement nutrients from captured prey, adapting well to its watery environment.

Fertilize: Sweet pitcherplant adapts well to nutrient-poor, moisture-retaining soil and should only be fertilized if minerals are lacking. Summer outdoor placement allows it to naturally capture nutrients. Avoid feeding sweet pitcherplant meat; instead, use specialized supplements or dried crickets for additional nutrition.

Pruning: For optimal health, prune sweet pitcherplant in early to late spring, removing dead foliage to encourage growth. Use sterilized, sharp tools for precise cuts, improving air circulation and nutrient allocation. Pruning enhances appearance and promotes overall vitality.

Propagation: Sweet pitcherplant benefits from division during transplanting. Ensure each division has sufficient roots and avoid damaging them. Pot offspring in a peat-perlite mix for optimal growth. Regular watering and suitable sunlight are essential for establishing new sweet pitcherplant plants.

Repotting: Repot sweet pitcherplant every 2-3 years in early spring, using a slightly larger container. Employ acidic, well-draining soil, maintain high humidity, and monitor water and sunlight to ensure vigorous health.

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