Sarracenia leucophylla HCW 3

Sarracenia leucophylla 'HCW 3' is a spectacular clone from the famed Hurricane Creek White lineage, known for producing some of the purest white pitchers in cultivation. ‘HCW 3’ stands out for its tall, stately tubes with porcelain-white upper portions veined delicately in green and red. As autumn approaches, its pitchers often become even taller and more dramatic, putting on a truly showstopping display.

This is a vigorous, easy-to-grow carnivorous plant that thrives in full sun and rewards proper care with reliable growth and outstanding coloration—especially in fall.

Light: Full sun—6–8+ hours daily for strong growth and rich coloration.
Temperature: Thrives in temperate conditions (50–90°F). Tolerates light frost.
Humidity: Moderate to high humidity preferred (50–80%), especially during active growth.
Water: Keep in a tray of distilled, rain, or reverse-osmosis water year-round. Never use tap water unless it's extremely pure (like San Francisco’s Hetch Hetchy supply).
Potting mix: Standard carnivorous plant mix—usually sphagnum peat moss and perlite or sand, with no fertilizers or compost.
Fertilizer: Not needed. This plant catches its own nutrients via insects.

Dormancy (important!):
Sarracenia leucophylla is a temperate plant and requires a winter dormancy period. In late fall, it will naturally begin to die back—this is normal. During dormancy (typically November–February), reduce watering slightly (keep the soil just damp) and allow the plant to rest in cooler conditions (35–55°F is ideal). Pitchers may brown and wither—this is expected and healthy. Remove dead growth in early spring to encourage fresh regrowth.

How to grow Sarracenia leucophylla 'HCW 3' indoors:
This plant is best grown outdoors or in a greenhouse. Indoor care is only possible under strong grow lights with very bright conditions, a proper dormancy setup, and careful attention to moisture and airflow. Indoor success is uncommon without a controlled setup.

How to grow Sarracenia leucophylla 'HCW 3' outdoors in the Bay Area:
Ideal for outdoor cultivation in the Bay Area. Place in full sun with its pot sitting in a tray of clean water spring through fall. During winter, allow the plant to go dormant. In coastal or foggy regions, protect from excessive winter rain by placing under a covered porch or cold frame. No fertilizing—just let it catch its own meals.

Bloom season: Spring
Dormant period: Winter (Nov–Feb)
Pet safe: Yes
Difficulty: Intermediate. Requires dormancy and full sun, but otherwise undemanding.