White Pitcher Plant

Common Name: White Pitcher Plant

Scientific Name: Sarracenia leucophylla

Origin: Southeastern United States

Family: Sarraceniaceae

Bloom time: Spring - Early Summer

Native to the Gulf Coast, Florida Panhandle and southern Alabama and Georgia, the White Pitcher Plant is a cornerstone of the Garden's conservation efforts. Human development and forest succession have led to the loss of its unique wetland habitat.

The plant attracts insect prey with a combination of scent, gravity and a waxy substance that disables insect feet forcing it to slip into the pitcher. Farther down, downward-pointing hairs make escape impossible. The lowest part of the pitcher contains a pool of liquid that drowns and digests the prey, leaving the exoskeletons to pile up inside.

The pitcher of the Sarracenia can also perform the functions of a normal leaf, including photosynthesis – insects aren't the only source of energy.

While known for its unique pitcher-shape and carnivorous abilities, Sarracenia leucophylla flower beautifully in spring, offering deep maroon flowers in addition to its eponymous tube.

The Sarracenia are a nationally accredited plant collection recognized by the Plant Collection Network, a program of the American Public Gardens Association.