Sarracenia, also known as Trumpet Pitcher plants, are beginner-friendly carnivorous plants
native to North America. Sarracenia grow all up the East Coast and into the Midwest of the
United States and Southern parts of Canada. There are eight recognized species and many,
many subspecies and hybridizations. Seven of the eight species are native to warmer climates.
One, however, the Sarracenia purpurea, can be grown outdoors in many four-season climates.
All seven other species will thrive indoors, however, given the right conditions. And if you’re
lucky enough to live in a perpetually warm climate, just about any of the species will survive
outdoors for you.
Your trumpet pitcher plant will need plenty of sunlight and water, regardless of species.
Sarracenia require full direct sunlight, and unlike many other carnivorous plant varieties, will not
tolerate partially sunny conditions. A southern-facing window is critical if you wish to grow your
plant indoors using only natural sunlight. On the other hand, if you have an outdoor greenhouse,
your trumpet pitcher plants will do well just about anywhere inside. A full spectrum grow light will
all work and will allow you a bit more flexibility on placement in your home. Consider a plant
lamp with various “arms” so that all parts of the plant can receive light. If you have an eastern or
western facing window that gives the plan some natural light, consider placing your plant light
on a timer: It can turn on (or off) based on the hours of natural daylight the plant receives.
Trumpet pitcher plants require the typical low-nutrient, high water content soil of carnivorous
plants. The most common planting material is a 2:1 mix of sphagnum peat moss and
horticultural sand. You can use perlite in place of the sand or choose to purchase pre-mixed soil
intended for carnivorous plants. Just make sure you avoid traditional potting mixes, as these
can kill the plant.
Keep the soil of your Trumpet Pitcher plant constantly wet. Carnivorous plants do better
overwatered than underwatered. For this reason, many gardeners choose to keep their Trumpet
Pitchers in a shallow tray filled with water, allowing the plant to take in water from the bottom
constantly. If you use this method, avoid terracotta or uncured ceramic pots as these can absorb
the water, leaving too little for the plant.
Whether you water from the top or bottom of your Sarracenia, you’ll need the right type of water.
Traditional bottled water and tap water will damage your carnivorous plants. Instead, purchase
deionized/distilled water from the grocery store. If you have access to a reverse osmosis system
or the ability to collect rainwater, these are also good watering options.
Trumpet Pitcher plants kept in greenhouses or outdoors will catch all the prey they need to
thrive. If your plant is in your home, however, consider feeding freeze-dried insects every few
weeks.
Most Sarracenia will need a winter dormancy period. Therefore, indoor plants will need to be in
a cooler environment for the winter months. In a four season environment, an unheated garage
or shed will do. If you live somewhere always warm, a cool corner of your basement will do.
Outdoor plants will naturally get the colder temperatures needed but should be protected from
the elements, especially if you regularly see temperatures below 20 degrees fahrenheit.