Sometimes new growers mistake the distinctive hooded pitcher, Sarracenia minor, for the cobra plant, Darlingtonia californica. Both plants have a hood that hides the pitcher opening. Their leaves also have light spots on the back, which trick insects into going farther into the trap. Fortunately, S. minor is much easier to grow and more forgiving of mistakes than Darlingrtonia. This plant prefers warm summers and a long growing season. Look for yellow flowers in mid to late spring.
GENERAL CARE
Type of Plant: Outdoor perennial for container growing.
Height: Up to 12 inches.
Sunlight: Full sun during the growing season.
Water: Low-mineral water (50 ppm or less).
Soil: Equal parts peat moss and perlite only.
Winter: Dormant. Minimal protection in USDA zones 7-9. Mulch in colder regions.
PLANT YOU RECEIVE
• 2nd-season division from select mother plants. (See below.)
• Acclimated for outdoor growing. Appearance will change with the seasons. (See below.)
• Shipped potted. Care instructions are included.
ABOUT RHIZOME DIVISIONS
• Medium divisions are generally twice as large as small divisions. They also have more pitchers and a fuller appearance.
• All divisions are matured for at least one full growing season, sometimes two. These 2nd-season divisions are more vigorous and robust than recent divisions.
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 will start to appear.
• June: Full display of pitchers. This plant will look its best!
• July-August: Plant will slow down when it’s hot. Some minor spotting.
• September-October: Dormancy begins. Fewer pitchers. No new growth until spring.
• November-December: Plant is dormant. Browned pitchers are cut off.
