The Cobra Lily (Darlingtonia californica) is native to Northern California and Southern Oregon, thriving in the icy streams of mountain runoff under full sun. Its unique, serpent-like pitchers make it a standout among carnivorous plants. However, they are challenging to cultivate, as they require cool root temperatures despite loving full sun on their pitchers. This makes them less suitable for beginners.
We currently have a very limited stock available!
Care Instructions:
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Growth: Darlingtonia sprouts tall pitchers from rhizomes and produces stolons that may circle the pots, sprouting new plants. They die back to rhizomes in winter, regrowing pitchers from late spring to winter. Dead pitchers can be trimmed back to the plant's base.
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Sun: Prefers full sun but needs protection from intense heat, especially in the afternoon. Our plants are positioned to avoid full afternoon sun. Consider shading the pots to minimize solar heating.
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Water: Keep the soil consistently moist or wet using the tray method. Cool the soil with cold water, using refrigerated water during hot days to maintain root health.
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Temperature: Hardy down to 15 degrees Fahrenheit. Roots should stay between 40-55 degrees Fahrenheit to avoid damage. Use large insulated coolers or recirculate cool water to protect them from heat, especially during brief heatwaves.
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Dormancy: Requires winter dormancy. Allow many pitchers to die back, keeping the plant in full sun and distilled water, either outdoors if snowy or inside an unheated area if your region is warmer. Alternatively, mulch heavily outdoors.
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Soil and Repotting: Use a mix of New Zealand long-fibered sphagnum moss and pumice, or peat and lava rock for aeration and to cool the roots. Do not repot immediately after purchase to avoid shock. Repot every three years during dormancy.
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Fertilizer: Apply MaxSea fertilizer diluted in distilled water to the leaves and pitchers monthly, avoiding soil application, if desired.