The Sarracenia Pitcher Plants and Bog Gardening

The Sarracenia pitcher plants are among the world’s most beautiful and intriguing plants, and being carnivorous adds an extra dimension of fascination. They are endemic to North America – 10 species are found only in the southeastern United States and one species is widely distributed, from the northeastern US and across Canada. They are easy to cultivate if you understand their basic needs and are grown the world over. Every botanical garden should have them because they are so popular with the public. They go hand-in-hand with other unusual carnivorous plants to make a display that is captivating (puns intended!) to both children and adults. This paper covers types of pitcher plants, their habitats, brief descriptions of the species, a key to identification, cultivation and a short note on conservation.