Source: Wikimedia Commons
Sarracenia Alata
IntermediateSarracenia alata
A Sarracenia with winged tubes, delicate yellow-green form and sweet-scented lid.
About
Sarracenia alata, the pale pitcher plant, is native to bogs and seepage wetlands of the southeastern United States, primarily in Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, and east Texas. Its most distinctive morphological feature is a prominent wing (ala) running the length of the pitcher tube—a characteristic reflected in the Latin species name meaning 'winged.' The pitchers are pale yellow-green to nearly white, giving the plant a delicate, refined appearance, and the lid secretes a sweet nectar that lures insects. Height typically ranges from 30 to 60 cm. Considerable color variation exists across the range, including red-veined and copper-lidded forms. Cultivation follows the standard Sarracenia protocol: acidic nutrient-poor media, tray watering with pure or rainwater, full sun, and cold winter dormancy. It is generally considered one of the easier Sarracenia to cultivate.
Lifespan of the Sarracenia Alata
The Sarracenia Alata lives 10+ years.
Size of the Sarracenia Alata
The Sarracenia Alata grows to 30-60cm.
Basic Info
Origin
Southern USA (Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, east Texas), bogs and seepage wetlands
Lifespan
10+ years
Size
30-60cm
Temperature
10〜30℃
Humidity
60〜90%
Watering & Fertilizer
Insects (auto-capture)
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
Full sun is essential. Grown outdoors in full sun the winged pitchers stand firm, and reddish forms color up well.
Watering
Tray-water to keep it constantly moist, using pure or rain water. Minerals in tap water build up and weaken the plant.
Soil & Repotting
Use pure sphagnum or peat moss with perlite. Do not fertilize; divide and repot when the rhizomes become crowded.
Dormancy Care
Winter dormancy is essential. Expose it to outdoor cold; the top dies back but the rhizome survives, so do not throw it out.
Pruning & Shaping
Reaches about 30-60 cm. Cut dead pitchers and old leaves off at the base after dormancy so light reaches the new growth.
Sarracenia Alata FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Sarracenia Alata?
Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.
QWhat is the lifespan of Sarracenia Alata?
The average lifespan of Sarracenia Alata is 10+ years. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.
QHow large does Sarracenia Alata get?
The mature size of Sarracenia Alata is 30-60cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Sarracenia Alata?
Sarracenia Alata: watering & fertilizer — Insects (auto-capture). Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Sarracenia Alata?
The price of Sarracenia Alata 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: Sarracenia alata (Alph.Wood) Alph.Wood
Synonyms: Sarracenia alata var. ornata S.McPherson & D.E.Schnell, Sarracenia purpurea var. alata (Alph.Wood) Alph.Wood, Sarracenia intermedia Bonstedt, Sarracenia flava var. crispata (André) Mast., Sarracenia sledgei Macfarl., Sarracenia alata var. nigropurpurea S.McPherson & D.E.Schnell, Sarracenia crispata André, Sarracenia alata var. cuprea S.McPherson & D.E.Schnell, Sarracenia gronovii var. alata Alph.Wood, Sarracenia alata var. atrorubra S.McPherson & D.E.Schnell, Sarracenia alata f. viridescens S.McPherson & D.E.Schnell, Sarracenia alata var. rubrioperculata S.McPherson & D.E.Schnell
Authority databases: GBIF · POWO · ICPS cultivar registration (International Carnivorous Plant Society)
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Regulations & Conservation Status
The genus Sarracenia is CITES Appendix II at the genus level (only S. oreophila and S. rubra subspecies jonesii/alabamensis are Appendix I). The species S. rubra itself is Appendix II.
Sources: CITES Appendices (carnivorous plants) - ICPS/Barry Rice / CITES & Carnivorous Plant Checklist (RBG Kew)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
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