Sarracenia minor var. okefenokeensis

Sarracenia minor var. okefenokeensis
A statuesque, southern beauty with hidden drama

Sarracenia minor var. okefenokeensis is a towering and elegant form of the hooded pitcher plant, native to the Okefenokee Swamp in Georgia. Distinguished by its unusually tall, upright pitchers—often reaching over 2 feet in ideal conditions—this variety adds architectural drama to any carnivorous plant collection.

Each pitcher is soft green with a domed hood and adorned with translucent white "windows" that allow light to filter inside, luring insects into the trap below. This variety shares the soft, hooded shape of Sarracenia minor, but is notably more vigorous and imposing in stature.

Light: Full sun is essential—6–8+ hours per day to maintain height, form, and color.
Temperature: Thrives in temperate conditions (50–90°F). Tolerates light frost and benefits from seasonal temperature shifts.
Humidity: Prefers moderate to high humidity but tolerates lower humidity when well-watered.
Water: Keep consistently wet. Grow in standing water (1–2 inches) using distilled, rain, or reverse-osmosis water only. Avoid mineral-heavy tap water unless you’re certain of its purity (Hetch Hetchy water is generally safe).
Potting mix: Carnivorous plant mix—typically peat moss with perlite or sand, with no added fertilizer or compost.
Fertilizer: Never fertilize. It catches all the nutrients it needs from insects.

Dormancy (important!):
Sarracenia minor var. okefenokeensis requires a winter dormancy to stay healthy long-term. In late fall, pitchers will naturally die back as the plant rests. During dormancy (typically November through February), keep the soil just damp and the plant in cool conditions between 35–55°F. Remove dead growth in early spring to encourage new growth.

How to grow Sarracenia minor var. okefenokeensis indoors:
Best grown outdoors or in a greenhouse. Indoors, it requires strong grow lights and must still undergo winter dormancy, which can be difficult to simulate without a cold setup. Not recommended as a true houseplant.

How to grow Sarracenia minor var. okefenokeensis outdoors in the Bay Area:
Thrives outdoors in full sun in both coastal and inland parts of the Bay Area. Plant in a container bog or large pot placed in a water tray. In winter, allow for natural dormancy—just shelter from excessive rain and hard frost if needed. Excellent for balconies, patios, and dedicated carnivorous plant setups.

Bloom season: Spring, with tall yellow flowers emerging before pitchers
Dormant period: Winter (Nov–Feb)
Pet safe: Yes
Difficulty: Intermediate—best suited for growers with outdoor space and a seasonal climate.