Pitcher Plant

Common name: Pitcher Plant (Northern Pitcher Plant, Purple Pitcher Plant)

Scientific name: Sarracenia purpurea

Dimensions:
  Flower: 2" (5 cm) wide
  Plant height: 8-24" (20-60 cm)

Blooming period: May-July

Habitat: Sphagnum bogs, other wet places

Description: A nodding, globular, large purplish-red solitary flower grows on a stalk separate from the plant's leaves; 5 sepals, 5 petals, numerous stamens; and a very large umbrella-shaped style. The reddish- green pitcher-like leaves, usually partly filled with water, are lined with downward- pointing bristles that help prevent insects that have fallen in from escaping. The colored lip of the leaves attracts the unsuspecting insects. This carnivorous plant then absorbs the nutrients from the decomposing insects. Pitcher Plant family. (June 2)