Sarracenia, or North American pitcher plants, are more than just eye-catching foliage, they’re living insect traps with style. Native to nutrient-poor wetlands, these plants evolved to feed on bugs by luring them into tall, tubular leaves using scent, color, and nectar. Once an unsuspecting insect slips inside, downward-facing hairs and slick walls make escape nearly impossible. The plant then absorbs nutrients from its prey, helping it thrive where other plants struggle.

Despite their exotic look, Sarracenia are surprisingly easy to maintain. They flourish in full sun with consistently damp, acidic soil such as peat moss with perlite for drainage. Water them with rainwater, distilled or reverse osmosis water to avoid mineral buildup, and let them enjoy a winter nap (dormancy) to recharge for spring.