Pot Size: 3.5"
Accepted Scientific Name: Sarracenia × farnhamii
Origin and Habitat:
Sarracenia × farnhamii is a naturally occurring hybrid between Sarracenia leucophylla and Sarracenia purpurea subsp. venosa, originally found in southeastern U.S. bogs, especially in Alabama and Mississippi. It inherits its habitat preferences from both parents, thriving in open, sunlit wetlands, acidic bogs, and peat-dominated seepage areas. The hybrid is often found in areas that experience seasonal flooding, frequent fire regimes, and high humidity. These environmental factors maintain open growing spaces and prevent woody encroachment, allowing this carnivorous plant to receive ample sunlight. Like its parents, it relies on nutrient-poor, acidic soils and has evolved to trap insects for supplemental nutrition.
Description:
This hybrid forms a dense rosette of upright to semi-erect pitchers, typically 8–16 in tall. The pitchers have a broad, flaring mouth and range in color from green to burgundy, often with white or pinkish areoles and deep red veining inherited from S. leucophylla. The hood may show a curled or frilled edge with strong patterning. In mid to late spring, plants send up a single flower, 1.5–2.5 in across, on a 12–18 in stalk. The flowers are usually a rich rose to dark pink, nodding downward with a characteristic umbrella-like style.
Cultivation:
Zone: USDA 6–9
Temperature: Hardy from –10 °C (dormancy) to 35 °C (active growth) with adequate soil moisture
Growth rate: Moderate; forms clumps over 2–3 growing seasons
Soil: Use a mix of 2 parts peat moss to 1 part pumice; avoid fertilizer in the soil
Watering: Keep pot in 1–2 in of rainwater or distilled water at all times; never let dry out
Fertilizing: No Fertilizer.
Light: Full sun (6–8 hours daily) is essential for vibrant color and healthy pitcher formation
Pests and Diseases: May be affected by aphids, spider mites, or scale; root or crown rot can occur in stagnant or over-shaded conditions, especially in cold, wet periods
Propagation:
Propagate by dividing rhizomes in early spring before new growth appears. Seeds can be sown after 6–8 weeks of cold stratification and require consistent moisture and warmth for germination.
