Interesting Plant is Carnivor

Saturday, November 28, 2009 03:45 AM

A very interesting looking plant that is very different from any other plant is the Sarracenia ‘Judith Hindle’ commonly known as the American Pitcher Plant. It gets its name pitcher plant from its tall upright pitcher shaped foliage which is very colorful. When the pitchers are young they are green/ yellow with signs of red veining and as they grow and age the pitchers darken to a deep plum red color. Each hollow shaped pitcher is topped with a ruffled hood which shelters the pitcher top and these hoods when young are green/yellow with red veins that mature into bright plum red with white mottling. This very attractive looking plant grows 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) tall.

The Sarrecnia Judith Hindle can be found growing in bogs outdoors where the climate is warmer (zone 7) so it enjoys always having moist roots. This is very important when growing them indoors. The roots must always be kept moist and never be allowed to dry out. The crown of the plant should not sit in water for any prolonged lengths of time. The best water to use is distilled, natural, or rain water and stay away from any water containing chlorine. Also, the plant does not require any fertilizer. In order for it to maintain its bright red colors it needs lots of sunlight. Place it in a south window where it will receive several hours of sunlight each day. Remember to rotate the plant every few days for even light. If a pitcher dies, simply cut it off.

This plant is carnivorous which means that it captures insects. Insects are attracted to the colorful foliage and the nectar which the plant produces around the rim of the pitcher. The insects eat the nectar and in their search for more nectar they slip down into the smooth pitchers and are unable to get out. They end up dying in the bottom of the pitcher which gives the plant nutrients. It is suggested that you do not feed the plant insects.

Sarracenia ‘Judith Hindle’ is certainly a plant worth considering if you are looking for something different as it is sure to attract many comments.

-Jos

Jos Van Hage owns and operates two Art Knapp Garden Centres in Prince George,

-Highway 16 west at Kimball Road

-Highway 97 north at Northwood Pulpmill Road

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