Sarracenia purpurea

Sarracenia purpurea

Purple Pitcher Plant

Description

Sarracenia purpurea is one of the most cold-tolerant and widely loved North American pitcher plants. Its squat, curved pitchers are richly veined in red and green, forming a low rosette that collects rainwater rather than digestive enzymes — a unique trait among its genus. Over time, the pitchers deepen to striking shades of maroon and burgundy, creating a sculptural display that looks almost unreal.

Care

Light: Full sun to bright gentle light indoors. Outdoors, it thrives in full sun for 6+ hours daily, which enhances color and vigor.

Water: Keep soil consistently wet with distilled, rain, or reverse-osmosis water. Do not use tap water unless you are in San Francisco or another Hetch Hetchy–supplied area, where it is generally safe.

Soil: Use a nutrient-free carnivorous mix such as 1:1 sphagnum peat and perlite or sand. Never fertilize — these plants evolved to capture their own nutrients.

Humidity: Prefers moderate to high humidity, but tolerates average indoor humidity if soil moisture is maintained.

Dormancy: Sarracenia purpurea requires a cool winter dormancy (around 3–4 months between 35–50°F). This rest period is crucial for long-term health.

How to Grow Indoors

Place in the sunniest window possible — ideally a bright south or west-facing exposure. Keep the pot standing in ½–1 inch of distilled or rainwater at all times. Provide a winter rest by moving the plant to a cooler, bright window or unheated porch during dormancy.

How to Grow Outdoors (San Francisco Bay Area)

This is one of the best Sarracenia species for outdoor cultivation in the Bay Area. It grows beautifully in bright coastal light with daily mist or fog and can remain outside year-round if protected from extreme heat or drying winds. Set the pot in a shallow tray of water during active growth, and allow reduced watering and light exposure during winter dormancy.

Pet Safety

Pet safe — no known toxicity according to ASPCA listings.

Why We Love It

Bold and architectural, Sarracenia purpurea adds a sculptural touch to any sunny windowsill or outdoor collection. Its vivid veining and low, dramatic form make it a standout even among carnivorous plants — proof that small stature can still command attention.