Some first-time growers mistake the distinctive hooded pitcher, Sarracenia minor, for the cobra plant, Darlingtonia californica. Both plants have a hood that hides the opening of the pitcher. Their leaves also have light spots on the back, which trick insects into going further inside the trap. Fortunately, Sarracenia minor is much easier to grow and is much more forgiving of mistakes than the cobra plant. This plant appreciates warm summers and a long growing season. Look for yellow flowers in mid to late spring.
PLANT YOU RECEIVE
• Established plant in its second growing season from division. (NOT a new division.)
• Grown outdoors at our nursery in Oregon, USDA zone 8.
• Shipped in a 4-inch pot. Care info is provided.
• Plant may reach 12-14 inches in its third growing season from division.
Photos illustrate summer growth. Appearance changes with the seasons at the time of shipping.
SEASONAL APPEARANCE
January-March: Plant is dormant with no pitchers.
April: Spring growth will appear by the end of the month.
May: Fully developed pitchers typically appear by the end of the month.
June-August: Full display of pitchers.
September: Plant is slowing down but produces its best pitchers of the season.
October: Dormancy begins. Fewer pitchers. No new growth until spring.
November-December: Plant is dormant. Browned pitchers are cut off.
GENERAL CARE
Type of Plant: Cold-hardy perennial for outdoor container growing.
Sunlight: Full sun, 6+ hours of direct sunlight, during the growing season.
Water: Low-mineral water (50 ppm or less). Keep media wet.
Soil: Equal parts peat moss and perlite. No garden soil, compost, or fertilizer.
Winter: Dormant. Mulch in USDA zones 6 or colder.
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