What is Sarracenia Purpurea and Where Does it Come From? Sarracenia purpurea, commonly known as the Purple Pitcher Plant, is a rare carnivorous plant that naturally inhabits the wetlands of North America, particularly the Eastern United States.
The typical size of the plant is between 12 to 24 inches tall, with some of the larger specimens growing up to 36 inches. Boasting an array of stunning colour variations across its various leaves, the colour palette of the Purple Pitcher Plant ranges from vibrant scarlet and deep purple to pale pink and yellow, making it a sight to behold!
The Natural Habitat of the Sarracenia PurpureaIn its natural habitat, the Purple Pitcher Plant is found nestled among the shrubbery of open marshy lowlands, bogs, and savannah grasslands where their pitcher-shaped leaves provide the perfect environment for trapping insect prey. Additionally, the pitcher layers secrete sugar to attract the insects, which are then dissolved in the plant’s enzyme-enriched fluids in which they drown.
Tips for Nurturing Your Purple Pitcher Plant
Light
The Purple Pitcher Plant requires lots of light and would benefit from a south or east-facing window. If the plant is placed outdoors, it should be in a spot where it is exposed to full sun.
Temperature
The Purple Pitcher Plant thrives in temperatures ranging from 10-34°C (50-95°F). In the summer, it is most comfortable between 24-29°C (75-85°F).
Soil Type and Drainage
The Purple Pitcher Plant should be planted in soil with excellent drainage (a mixture of 1/3 peat moss, 1/3 sand, and 1/3 bark should work well) and be always kept moist to the touch.
Humidity
The Purple Pitcher Plant enjoys higher humidity levels of around 50-60%. If the humidity drops too low, the plant should be misted once or twice daily.
Watering
The Purple Pitcher Plant should be watered regularly throughout the growing season and should have its pot’s soil damp but not soggy at all times.
Toxicity
The Purple Pitcher Plant is not poisonous and can be handled and touched safely.
Fertiliser
The Purple Pitcher Plant should be fertilised with nitrogen-rich fertiliser mixed into the soil approximately monthly.
Troubleshooting Pests, Diseases and Common Problems
Common pests that plague the Purple Pitcher Plant are root rot, spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. If you spot any of these, treat the infected part of the plant with fungicides and insecticides as soon as possible.
Propagating
Propagating the Purple Pitcher Plant is relatively easy, and it can be done by either dividing the root system or taking stem cutting. When harvesting stem cuttings, make sure you take at least 6 inches of stem with at least two to three leaves. Place the cuttings in a medium of one part sand and one part peat and keep it moist to the touch. The cutting should have taken root within three weeks and be ready for planting.
Final Thoughts
The rare, exotic and unique Purple Pitcher Plant is one of the most sought-after carnivorous plants and an ideal addition to any outdoor space. With the right combination of light, temperature, soil type and drainage, humidity, watering and fertiliser, the Purple Pitcher Plant is sure to be the pride of your garden!
