Pot Size: 3.5"
Accepted Scientific Name: Sarracenia ‘Maroon’
Origin and Habitat:
Sarracenia ‘Maroon’ is a cultivated hybrid bred for its deep, uniform coloration and vigorous growth. While its exact parentage is not always documented, it is believed to descend from a mix of Sarracenia purpurea, Sarracenia rubra, and possibly Sarracenia leucophylla, all of which originate from the nutrient-poor bogs and pine savannas of the southeastern United States. These plants thrive in sunny, acidic wetlands that experience seasonal fluctuations, winter dormancy, and high summer humidity. In cultivation, ‘Maroon’ performs best when grown in shallow containers or bog gardens that replicate these consistently wet, sunny, low-nutrient conditions.
Description:
Sarracenia ‘Maroon’ produces compact to medium-height pitchers, typically 8–14 in tall, with broad, flaring mouths and short hoods. The entire pitcher displays a rich, uniform maroon to burgundy tone with a satin sheen, occasionally accented with faint veining. This intense coloration deepens in full sun. In spring, a single flower 1.5–2 in across emerges on a 12–18 in tall stalk. The flower is nodding, with burgundy to deep red petals and a distinctive umbrella-shaped structure. It lasts several weeks and is mildly fragrant, attracting spring pollinators.
Cultivation:
Zone: USDA 5–9
Temperature: Hardy from –15 °C in dormancy to 32 °C in active summer growth
Growth rate: Moderate; forms attractive clumps over 2–3 seasons
Soil: Mix 2 parts peat moss with 1 part pumice; avoid fertilized soils or compost
Watering: Stand pot in 1–2 in of rainwater or distilled water; never allow soil to dry out
Fertilizing: No Fertilizer.
Light: Requires full sun (minimum 6 hours daily) for best color and pitcher development
Pests and Diseases: Susceptible to aphids, scale, and mealybugs; crown rot or fungal infections may occur in poor drainage or low airflow conditions
Propagation:
Propagate by dividing rhizomes in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Seeds can be used but require 6–8 weeks of cold stratification and are slow to mature.
