The Plants that Snack Back: Carnivorous Plants

 

    The majority of plants on Earth grow their most important asset in the Earth.. that is their root system! Plants use their roots not only to search for and collect water, but also to attain vital minerals and nutrients, to anchor them in place preventing breakage or disruption, and to store food reserves for dormancy. 

Carnivorous plants, however, have shallow and simple root structures, which aren’t ideal for reaching adequate nourishment. Consequently, carnivorous plants have evolved mechanisms that allow them to trap and digest bugs and insects, which give them the nutrients they need to survive. There are many different species of carnivorous plants, and their means of attracting and trapping their prey differ as well. Bug Appétit!

At Sunshine Garden Center, we currently have four different varieties of carnivorous plants in stock, including the Pitcher Plant, Sundew, and Venus Fly Traps. 

Carnivorous Varieties

Pitcher Plant

Pitcher plants have funnel shaped leaves that are filled with a liquid called phytotelmata. Downward pointing hairs line the funnel, making it challenging for bugs to escape the trap. The phytotelmata drowns the insect, then breaks it down further to utilize the nutrients. This process is similar to your very own stomach acid that breaks down the food you eat so your body can use it for energy! 

As of July 2025, we have two different species of pitcher plant in stock; Purple pitcher plant (sarracenia purpurea), and the sweet pitcher plant (sarracenia rubra).

Sundew

Sundews, often nicknamed “sticky-leaved plants,” possess specialized hairs that secrete a glue-like digestive fluid designed to lure insects. Once an insect touches the sticky droplets, escape becomes nearly impossible. Furthermore, the sundew can use its tentacles to wrap around the prey, further trapping it, ensuring a nutritious meal. 

As of July 2025, we offer Drosera rotundifolia, or roundleaf sundew. 

Venus Fly Trap

The most entertaining and notable carnivorous plant. The Venus Flytrap is easily recognized by its set of half-moon shaped leaves with a spiny edge fringed with “teeth”. Once the tiny hairs pick up movement in the “mouth,” the two halves will close immediately to trap the food inside. This process is similar to how sensitive plants close their leaves once touched. Once the flytrap’s “mouth” is closed, the plant releases digestive juices to break the prey down. 

Carnivorous Care

Though carnivorous plants can have a shorter lifespan when grown as houseplants, there is no better time to bring one home than in summer. These plants can thrive in summer growing conditions, and are sure to entertain! 

• Sun: 6+ hours sun daily. Place outside during the summer in a sunny spot with direct or filtered light. When kept indoors, a south-facing window will be necessary and can be supplemented with grow lights; these plants love sun and will begin to turn vibrant colors with increased exposure. 
• Watering: Always use distilled water or rainwater. Keep the growing medium wet. Never let it dry fully. 
• Humidity: Although they prefer high humidity, as long as the growing medium is always hydrated, their humidity needs will be fulfilled. 
• Feeding: Not necessary. Can supplement every couple weeks with insects. 
• Dormancy: These plants enter dormancy during the cold season. Keep your plant outside (or in a south facing window) until all of the green turns brown (around November.) Snip the dead foliage off carefully and place the plant in a plastic bag. Store in your fridge for 3-4 months. 

Some carnivorous plants are native to the United States and can tolerate frosty conditions. It’s best to look up your specific species to see if your plant can tolerate the outside winter in your zone (Diamond, IL - Zone 5).

If you would like to bring one of these special plants home, or you have more questions, stop by Sunshine Garden Center in Diamond, IL and ask for Courtney.