AQUA ART Sarracenia flava var. atropurpurea
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Sarracenia flava var. atropurpurea
Common Name: Red Pitcher Plant
Sarracenia flava var. atropurpurea, commonly known as the Red Pitcher Plant, is a striking carnivorous plant native to the southeastern United States. This unique variety is distinguished by its deep red-to-purple pigmentation, which intensifies in bright sunlight. Its tall, tubular pitchers, ranging from 30–90 cm in height, are designed to lure, trap, and digest insects, making it both functional and ornamental. Adapted to nutrient-poor boggy environments, it thrives in acidic, waterlogged soil with ample light and humidity. Perfect for outdoor bog gardens or specialised terrariums, this variety of Sarracenia flava is highly sought after by enthusiasts for its bold colours and dramatic appearance.
Special Features:
Deep red-to-purple pitchers that intensify in bright light
Highly efficient insect trap for natural pest control
Companion Compatibility:
Thrives alongside other bog plants like Drosera and Utricularia
Avoid pairing with plants requiring nutrient-rich soil
Lifecycle:
Perennial
Dormancy Needs:
Requires a cold dormancy period during winter (reduce watering and provide temperatures of 0–10°C for 3–4 months)
CO2 Demand:
Not necessary; thrives in ambient CO2 levels
Animal Compatibility:
Suitable for terrariums with amphibians or reptiles; keep insects used as prey proportional to the pitcher’s size.
- Use a nutrient-poor mix of sphagnum moss, silica sand, and perlite (2:1:1 ratio).
- Plant in a deep, water-retentive container with good drainage to mimic boggy conditions.
- Ensure the rhizome is slightly above the soil line to prevent rot.
- Keep in a location with full sun or under strong artificial light.
- Watering: Use distilled or rainwater to keep the soil waterlogged; avoid tap water due to minerals.
- Light: Requires full sun for vibrant colouration; ensure at least 6–8 hours daily.
- Humidity: Maintain moderate to high humidity (60–80%) using misting or a terrarium.
- Feeding: Allow the plant to catch live insects; no fertilisation is needed.
- Dormancy: Provide a cold dormancy period during winter to ensure healthy growth in the next season.
- Pruning: Remove dead or brown pitchers to encourage new growth and prevent fungal issues.
