Pitcher Plants
(Sarracenia spp.)
Physical Description:
- The most striking feature is the tubular pitchers of the plant
- Various species range in size from about 10 inches up to 3 feet tall
- Tubes and flowers of different species range in color variations from white with red veins to solid green
- Slippery hairs are found inside the tubes and a pool of digestive juice is found within the tube
- External opening of tube is covered by a hood like projection that prevents digestive juices from becoming diluted with rain water
Range:
- Found throughout the world in areas associated with soggy, acidic soil
- Around eight different species of pitcher plant found in the Southeast
- Associated with longleaf pine forests, the more common are the white-topped, green, purple, parrot, yellow and cane break pitcher plants
Habitat Description:
- Bogs, seepage areas, savannas, and flat woods
- Frequent fire is a necessary component
Interesting Trivia:
- Carnivorous diet composed of isopods, mites, spiders, and the occasional small frog
- Prey is attracted to the plant, climbs down the tube, falls into the pitcher, which contains rain, dew, and a digestive enzyme that soon dissolves the victim
- Up to seventeen species of insects are known to rely on solely on pitcher plants for survival (including pollinators, prey consumers, parasites, etc.)
- Plants re-sprout quickly and vigorously after a fire
Status:
- Generally declining throughout their range
- Often considered species of special concern and some even Federally listed
Causes for Decline:
- Fire suppression activities that degrade habitat
- Over collecting for trade
- Changing hydrology of habitat through draining, vegetation clearing, etc.
- Overgrazing