Source: Wikimedia Commons
Sarracenia Flava
IntermediateSarracenia flava
A Sarracenia with tall yellow-green tubes, one of the largest species, exceeding 1m.
About
Sarracenia flava, the yellow pitcher plant, is one of the tallest species in the genus, with pitchers regularly reaching 50–100 cm and sometimes exceeding 1 m under optimal conditions. Native to the coastal plain wetlands of the southeastern United States from Virginia to Florida, it produces erect, yellow-green to pure yellow pitchers capped by a broad, nectar-secreting lid that lures insects to fall into the digestive pool below. The species encompasses numerous recognized varieties and color forms, including the fully red 'red tube' form, 'copper top' with a bronzed lid, and others, all highly prized by collectors. Cultivation requires maximum direct sunlight, acidic nutrient-poor media (sphagnum or peat-perlite), tray watering with pure or rainwater, and mandatory cold winter dormancy. It is among the most popular Sarracenia for ornamental growing.
Lifespan of the Sarracenia Flava
The Sarracenia Flava lives 10+ years.
Size of the Sarracenia Flava
The Sarracenia Flava grows to 50-100cm.
Basic Info
Origin
Southeastern USA (Virginia to Florida), coastal plain wetlands and savannas
Lifespan
10+ years
Size
50-100cm
Temperature
10〜30℃
Humidity
60〜90%
Watering & Fertilizer
Insects (auto-capture)
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
Needs strong direct sun; in low light the pitchers, which can exceed 1 m, tend to flop. Keep it outdoors in full sun.
Watering
Tray-water to keep it constantly moist, using only pure or rain water. A large plant drinks a lot, so never let the tray run dry.
Soil & Repotting
Use pure sphagnum or peat moss with perlite. Because it grows tall, use a deep, stable pot and never fertilize.
Dormancy Care
In winter, expose it to frost outdoors so it goes dormant without fail. Keep the tray shallow during dormancy and cut dead pitchers at the base.
Pruning & Shaping
Pitchers reach 50-100 cm and sometimes over 1 m. Remove fallen or browned pitchers at the base so sunlight reaches new ones.
Sarracenia Flava FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Sarracenia Flava?
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 Flava?
The average lifespan of Sarracenia Flava is 10+ years. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.
QHow large does Sarracenia Flava get?
The mature size of Sarracenia Flava is 50-100cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Sarracenia Flava?
Sarracenia Flava: watering & fertilizer — Insects (auto-capture). Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Sarracenia Flava?
The price of Sarracenia Flava varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: August 31, 2026
Growing Specifications
- USDA Zone
- 6–8
Sources: Missouri Botanical Garden - Sarracenia flava (Zone 6-8)
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 flava L.
Synonyms: Sarracenia flava var. ornata Rob., Sarracenia atropurpurea W.Bull, Sarracenia atrosanguinea André, Sarracenia gronovii Alph.Wood, Sarracenia flava var. sanguinea Burb., Sarracenia flava var. rugelii (Shuttlew. ex A.DC.) Mast., Sarracenia flava var. rubricorpora Schnell, Sarracenia flava var. maxima B.S.Williams, Sarracenia flava var. picta B.S.Williams, Sarracenia erythropus (Mast.) W.Bull, Sarracenia gronovii var. flava (L.) Alph.Wood, Sarracenia flava f. viridescens 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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