One of the most fun-looking cultivars of the Dionaea muscipula genus, the Big Mouth Venus
Flytrap is rather obviously named for its predominant feature: a larger than average trap that
resembles a giant mouth. It is one of the largest cultivars in terms of trap size but one of the
shortest in terms of overall height. The traps begin as completely green and develop the
distinctive ping “mouth” as they mature.
Whether growing the plant in or out-of-doors, you’ll need to place your Big Mouth Venus Flytrap
where it can get plenty of sunlight. In cooler climates, this means a very sunny, southern-facing
window or a full sun environment outdoors. Your plant can go in an Eastern or western facing
window or a part sun location outside in warmer climates. What is most important is that you try
to mimic its natural environment as closely as possible.
Venus Flytraps are native to North and South Carolina, in boggy coastal areas. During the day,
they prefer temperatures between 70-75 Fahrenheit and no colder than 55 Fahrenheit
overnight. They need at least 60 percent humidity which makes them excellent candidates for
greenhouses or terrariums. Keeping them around other plants, a shallow dish with stones and
water, or even a humidifier can help ensure optimal humidity levels if you don’t wish to grow
your Dionaea muscipula in a terrarium.
Since it is accustomed to a climate with four seasons, your Big Mouth Venus Flytrap will need a
period of winter dormancy. Temperatures in their native environment frequently drop below
freezing during the winter, and you will want to mimic this pattern. Ensure they are protected
from the elements by keeping them in your garage, garden shed, or unheated greenhouse. If
you live in a location that doesn’t get a cooler winter, you may have to get creative to provide
this period of cooler temperatures.
You will also want to ensure the proper soil for your carnivorous plant. Again, you can find a
detailed guide here.
As carnivorous plants, your Dionaea muscipula will need actual feeding rather than a fertilizer. If
it is not in an environment likely to naturally present them with a regular insect diet, you need to
provide that. This can be done by trapping live insects and spiders or purchasing freeze-dried.
Like other Venus Flytraps, the Big Mouth will produce flowers in the Spring. However, some
growers suggest removing the flowers to increase growth to other areas of the plant, as flower
growth can use up quite a bit of this carnivorous plant’s energy.