Sarraceniáceas
Sarraceniaceae
Family of carnivorous plants from the American continent with three pitcher-plant genera: Sarracenia (11 sp, North America), Darlingtonia (1 sp, cobra lily, California-Oregon), and Heliamphora (23 sp, South American tepuis). Modified leaves form pitchers that trap and digest insects. Inhabit mainly acidic bogs and high-mountain tepui formations.
Darlingtonia
Darlingtonia
Monotypic genus: Darlingtonia californica, known as "cobra lily" for the hooded appearance of its twisted pitcher. Endemic to mountain bogs in northern California and southern Oregon (USA). Notable for its unusual trapping system: the pitcher has a ventral opening with two "fang" appendages and a translucent dome at the apex. Insects confused by translucent light fall inside. Does not produce its own digestive enzymes — relies on symbiotic bacteria.
Heliamphora
Heliamphora
Genus of 23 species of South American pitcher plants endemic to the tepuis of Venezuela, Guyana, and Brazil (Roraima). Considered evolutionarily the most primitive pitcher plants. Pitchers are simple tubes with a peristome (rim) and a nectar "spoon" at the base of the lid. They do not produce their own digestive enzymes. Live on the isolated summits of tepuis, with high humidity, low temperature, and very poor soils. Great interest among botanists and specialized growers.
Sarracenia
Sarracenia
Genus of 11 pitcher plant species endemic to North America. Tubular leaves form erect pitchers with a lid (operculum) that prevents dilution of digestive fluid by rain. Flowers are showy and solitary. Genus with enormous diversity of natural forms, subspecies, varieties, and prolific natural and intergeneric hybridization (×Sarracephora, ×Sarraceniaphor). Widely cultivated by enthusiasts.