Carnivorous Plants

Imagine plants that devour living creatures for nourishment. Sounds like science fiction, but it's true.

There are many plants that acquire at least some of their nutrients by consuming animals or insects.

They have adapted this eating habit from living in areas where the soil is low in nutrient content, specifically nitrogen.

Boggy areas of acidic, wet soil are the native habitats of most carnivorous plants. There are over 600 species of plants that have the ability to attract and trap their prey.

They produce either a scent or nectar that attracts the insects to the plant. Once trapped, the plants produce enzymes that digest and ultimately absorb its preys' nutrients.

Growing Conditions

If you're growing them indoors, it's best to grow most carnivorous plants in a terrarium with the lid partially open to provide air circulation.

This will provide the humidity they're used to in their native environment. A fish tank or even a large jar can be used to create a simple terrarium.

Place a layer of sphagnum moss mixed with orchid peat in the bottom of the container. Mix in some sand and cover with another layer of sphagnum moss.

Place your plants in the container along with a few rocks to create a bog-like setting. Place the container in bright light to full sun or under fluorescent lighting.

Keep the soil moist but not wet. Carnivorous plants don't need fertilizing.

Among the most common carnivorous plants is the Venus fly trap (Dionaea muscipula) with its 2-lobed leaf blades. The blades snap closed and its stiff hairs interlock to trap an insect that has triggered the sensitive hairs.

Sundew plants (Drosera capensis) have leaves shaped like lances or spades that are covered with dense, sticky hairs that trap insects. It produces star shaped red flowers.

Bladderwort (Utricularia) is an aquatic plant with a trap-door-like opening covered in bristly hairs.

Butterwort is a small plant with pink or green leaf rosettes covered in a sticky substance. Small insects get stuck to this substance and are digested and absorbed. This unique plant produces tiny flowers that resemble miniature orchids.

Pitcher plants (Darlingtonia) are available in several varieties native to different regions of the world. With tall, hollow leaves, they can trap several insects at a time.

Many carnivorous plants are becoming extinct in the wild. Rather than pick them, it's best to purchase plants from a reputable dealer.

Follow specific planting and growing directions for the variety you choose. These natural insect predator plants will be a unique conversation piece in your home and gardens.