Sarracenia x catesbaei

Sarracenia × catesbaei is a naturally occurring hybrid pitcher plant admired for its graceful form and richly colored traps. This hybrid results from the crossing of Sarracenia flava and Sarracenia purpurea, combining the upright stature of the yellow pitcher plant with the broad, richly colored characteristics of the purple pitcher plant. The result is a distinctive plant that produces stout, slightly flared pitchers often shaded in tones of green, rose, and burgundy.

The pitchers rise upright from the crown and typically feature a broad opening beneath a curved hood. The interior of the trap is designed to capture insects: nectar along the rim attracts prey, and once inside the smooth walls of the pitcher, insects slip downward into digestive fluids that break them down. This remarkable adaptation allows the plant to thrive in nutrient-poor bog soils.

In the garden, Sarracenia × catesbaei forms an attractive clump of colorful pitchers that add height and visual interest to bog plantings. Its natural hybrid vigor and distinctive appearance make it a favorite among carnivorous plant growers. In early spring, striking nodding flowers appear on tall stems before the new pitchers emerge.

Growing Conditions

• Light: Full sun

• Water: Constant moisture; keep soil wet with pure water (rainwater, distilled, or reverse osmosis)

• Soil: Acidic bog mix such as peat moss and sand

• Hardiness: Generally USDA Zones 6–9

• Dormancy: Requires winter dormancy in cooler months

Landscape Uses

• Bog garden specimen among carnivorous plants

• Container bog centerpiece for patios and decks

• Pond-edge accent plant where acidic wet soil can be maintained

• Educational garden plant demonstrating insect-trapping adaptations

• Collector’s specimen in carnivorous plant collections

A fantastic formed plant, makes a stunning addition to any collection! 

Medium divisions available