Source: Wikimedia Commons
Darlingtonia Californica
AdvancedDarlingtonia californica
Called Cobra Lily, a North American carnivorous plant with cobra-head-like pitchers preferring cool conditions.
About
Darlingtonia californica, the cobra lily or California pitcher plant, is the sole species of the monotypic genus Darlingtonia, native to cold serpentine seeps and bogs in northern California and southern Oregon. Its dramatically hooded pitchers—shaped unmistakably like a striking cobra—are among the most visually distinctive structures of any carnivorous plant. The dome of the hood is translucent, confusing trapped insects with false 'exit' light in a manner analogous to Sarracenia minor's window mechanism. Pure or rainwater, sphagnum media, strong light, and cool ambient temperatures are all required.
Lifespan of the Darlingtonia Californica
The Darlingtonia Californica lives 10+ years.
Size of the Darlingtonia Californica
The Darlingtonia Californica grows to 30-60cm.
Temperature & humidity for the Darlingtonia Californica
The ideal temperature for the Darlingtonia Californica is 5〜22℃.
The plant's most demanding cultivation requirement is cool root temperatures: in nature, its roots are bathed by cold, oxygen-rich upwelling groundwater, and in cultivation the root zone must be kept below approximately 15°C in summer to prevent decline.
Basic Info
Origin
Northern California to southern Oregon, USA, cold serpentinite seeps and bogs
Lifespan
10+ years
Size
30-60cm
Temperature
5〜22℃
Humidity
60〜90%
Watering & Fertilizer
Insects (auto-capture)
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
Strong direct sun and cool conditions are essential. Give it full sun but place it where the root zone stays cool.
Watering
Avoid tray watering; pour cold purified water or rainwater from above, or grow it in flowing water. Keeping the roots constantly cooled is the key.
Temperature & Overwintering
The ideal range is 5-22°C. In summer the root zone must be cooled below 15°C, which is the biggest challenge in cultivation.
Soil & Repotting
Use sphagnum moss alone as the medium. Keep it well drained and airy so the roots never get stuffy.
Pests & Cautions
Its greatest enemy is heat at the root zone in summer. Neglect cooling measures such as flushing with cold water and it declines quickly.
Darlingtonia Californica FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Darlingtonia Californica?
Advanced. A variety suitable for advanced growers. Requires advanced cultivation techniques and specialized equipment, with careful environmental adjustments needed.
QWhat is the ideal temperature for Darlingtonia Californica?
The ideal temperature for Darlingtonia Californica is 5〜22℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QWhat is the lifespan of Darlingtonia Californica?
The average lifespan of Darlingtonia Californica is 10+ years. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.
QHow large does Darlingtonia Californica get?
The mature size of Darlingtonia Californica is 30-60cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Darlingtonia Californica?
Darlingtonia Californica: watering & fertilizer — Insects (auto-capture). Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Darlingtonia Californica?
The price of Darlingtonia Californica varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: August 31, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Accepted name: Darlingtonia californica Torr.
Synonyms: Chrysamphora californica (Torr.) Greene, Darlingtonia californica f. viridiflora B.Rice
Authority databases: GBIF · POWO · ICPS cultivar registration (International Carnivorous Plant Society)
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Regulations & Conservation Status
Darlingtonia is not subject to CITES (previously listed but subsequently removed) and is listed as Least Concern (LC) (widespread but locally rare).
Sources: CITES Appendices (carnivorous plants) - ICPS/Barry Rice / CITES & Carnivorous Plant Checklist (RBG Kew) / IUCN Red List / Kew: Darlingtonia californica (LC)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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