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California pitcherplant
Scientific Name: Darlingtonia
Family: Sarraceniaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth:
Duration:
Other Names:
California Pitcher Plant (Darlingtonia californica)
The Darlingtonia californica, commonly known as the California pitcher plant, cobra lily, or cobra plant, is a fascinating carnivorous plant species.
Considerations for Pets
- The plant has numerous stalks that resemble cobra heads, which may be intriguing to some animals.
- The plant traps insects in a pitcher-shaped pouch containing fluid, which pets might find interesting.
Considerations for Children
- The plant has numerous stalks that resemble cobra heads, which may be intriguing to some children.
- The plant traps insects in a pitcher-shaped pouch containing fluid, which children might find interesting.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Darlingtonia californica Torr.
- Common Names: California pitcher plant, cobra lily, cobra plant, calf's head, cobra orchid, Chrysamphora.
- Family: Sarraceniaceae
Distribution and Habitat
- Endemic to the northern Sierra Nevada and Coast Ranges of southwestern Oregon and northern California.
- Found in acidic bogs, seeps, and wet meadows in coniferous forests.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Perennial herb.
- The plant is named for the unique shape of its numerous stalks, which resemble cobra heads rearing to strike.
- Features wing-shaped leaves that protrude.
- Upright tubular leaves topped with large hood.
- Leaves are yellow-green to reddish, with translucent patches.
Ecological Role
- Carnivorous plant, trapping insects in its pitcher-shaped leaves.
- Listed by CNPS (California Native Plant Society) as a rare and threatened species.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Traps and ingests decaying insects.
- Relies on bacteria to aid in the digestion of prey.