Carnivorous Plants

Sundews, members of the genus Drosera, are among the most widespread carnivorous plants on Earth. Found on nearly every continent, they have evolved an extraordinary strategy for survival in nutrient-poor environments: capturing insects with specialized sticky glands.

Few carnivorous plants look as unusual as Darlingtonia californica. Its appearance alone makes it a collector favorite. Its care requirements are what make it legendary.

Some plants hide their traps beneath the soil. Others snap shut in an instant. Nepenthes do something entirely different. With more than 170 recognized species and countless hybrids, Nepenthes represent one of the most diverse and fascinating groups of carnivorous plants in cultivation.

Few plants are as recognizable as the Venus flytrap (Dionaea muscipula). Their snapping traps capture the imagination of beginners and collectors alike. Unfortunately, they're also one of the most misunderstood plants in cultivation.

If there's one piece of advice that applies to nearly every carnivorous plant, it's this: Water matters. More carnivorous plants are lost to poor water quality than almost any other care issue.

Carnivorous plants have a reputation for being difficult. In reality, many species are surprisingly easy to grow once you understand a few simple rules.