General Appearance: A small, perennial carnivorous plant known for its distinctive hinged lobes (traps) that snap shut to capture prey, primarily insects and arachnids.
Size: Typically grows 4-5 inches (10-12 cm) in diameter, with individual traps reaching up to 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) long.
Leaves: Each leaf consists of a flat petiole that extends into a pair of terminal lobes lined with stiff, hair-like structures (trigger hairs) and fringed with cilia-like teeth.
Flower: Produces small, white flowers on a tall stalk to prevent trapping its own pollinators.
Known Range
Native Habitat: Endemic to subtropical wetlands in the United States, specifically the coastal plains of North and South Carolina.
Distribution: Found in the wild primarily in nutrient-poor, acidic, sandy or peaty soils of bogs and wet savannas. Often grows in full sun to partial shade environments with high humidity and a water table near the surface.
Care Requirements
Light: Requires full sun to partial shade; at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily is ideal.
Water: Needs consistently moist soil; use distilled water, rainwater, or reverse osmosis water to avoid mineral buildup. Avoid tap water.
Soil: Prefers a mix of sphagnum peat moss and perlite or sand (without fertilizers). Soil should be nutrient-poor and acidic.
Temperature: Thrives in temperatures ranging from 70-95°F (21-35°C) during the growing season, with cooler temperatures around 40-50°F (4-10°C) during winter dormancy.
Humidity: High humidity is beneficial, particularly in drier climates. Humidity trays or terrariums can help maintain moisture levels.
Feeding: While capable of catching its own prey, supplemental feeding of small insects (e.g., flies, ants) can be beneficial, especially if grown indoors.
Dormancy: Requires a winter dormancy period of about 3-4 months. During this time, reduce watering and keep the plant in a cooler environment to simulate natural conditions.
Repotting: Should be repotted every 1-2 years in fresh growing medium to prevent soil compaction and mineral buildup.
Many of the flowering plants featured on our website are available through Nature Hills Nursery. Ordering them through this link will support the Cernunnos Foundation and your garden!
