1-3 Plants in a Tissue Culture Cup

Botanical Name:

Sarracenia purpurea venosa

Visual Description:

The Sarracenia purpurea venosa is a robust and hardy carnivorous pitcher plant, easily recognised by its broad, squat pitchers that spread outward rather than standing upright. The pitchers are deep green with vibrant red veining, and they can take on a reddish-purple hue, particularly when exposed to bright sunlight. The inner surface of the pitchers is lined with fine hairs, which help to trap and guide insects into the digestive fluids at the bottom. In tissue culture, Sarracenia purpurea venosa maintains a compact, low-growing habit, making it a perfect addition to bog gardens, terrariums, or as a standout feature in any carnivorous plant collection.

Key Features:

• Carnivorous Nature: Sarracenia purpurea venosa effectively captures and digests insects with its water-filled pitchers, which contain digestive enzymes that break down prey into essential nutrients.
• Ideal for Terrariums and Containers: Cultivated in tissue culture, this plant is ideal for terrariums, bog gardens, or as a distinctive addition to a carnivorous plant collection. Its low-growing nature makes it versatile for various settings.
• Striking Colouration: The plant exhibits a dynamic range of colours, from deep green to reddish-purple, depending on the light conditions, with prominent red veins that add to its visual appeal.

Growing Conditions:

• Light: Prefers full sunlight, which enhances its reddish-purple colouration and supports healthy growth.
• Water: Requires consistently moist soil, ideally in a boggy or waterlogged environment. Use rainwater or distilled water to avoid mineral buildup.
• Temperature: Thrives in temperatures between 15-30°C but can tolerate cooler conditions better than many other *Sarracenia* species.
• Humidity: Moderate to high humidity levels are ideal, although it can adapt to a range of humidity conditions.

Tissue Culture Care and Hardening:

Upon receiving your Sarracenia purpurea venosa, it is essential to properly harden the plant to ensure a smooth transition from the controlled tissue culture environment to your home or garden. Follow these steps for successful hardening:

1. Gradual Humidity Reduction: Start by placing the plant in a covered container or terrarium with high humidity. Over 1-2 weeks, gradually increase ventilation by opening the container more each day, allowing the plant to adapt to lower humidity levels.
2. Shaded Location: Initially, place the plant in a shaded area with indirect light. After a few days, slowly introduce it to brighter light, but avoid direct sunlight until the plant is fully hardened.
3. Consistent Moisture: Keep the soil consistently moist during the hardening process, using rainwater or distilled water. Ensure the soil remains boggy, as this species thrives in waterlogged conditions.
4. Temperature Stability: Maintain a stable temperature during the hardening process, ideally between 20-25°C. Protect the plant from extreme temperature changes to avoid stress.
5. Monitoring: Observe the plant closely for any signs of stress, such as wilting or discolouration. Adjust humidity, light, and water levels as needed to support the plant's acclimation.

Once the plant has fully hardened, it can be gradually moved to its permanent location, whether in a terrarium, container, bog garden, or outdoor setting. With proper care, your Sarracenia purpurea venosa will thrive, offering a unique and resilient addition to your collection.