I made the mistake today. I thought fixing the pump in my pond in 7 degree weather was the right choice. As Warren Buffet so eloquently put it, “It’s good to learn from your mistakes. It’s better to learn from other people’s mistakes.” Do not do, as this landscaper just did! In light of my debatable choices, and as my hands begin to thaw and throb, lets talk about a plant I recently discovered can tolerate the cold winters of Indiana! Let’s talk about the Pitcher Plant and why you might want to add this unique plant into your landscape or home.
Why Use Pitcher Plants in Your Landscaping
The Pitcher Plant is one of the most unique plants found on planet Earth. Due to low soil fertility, this plant has evolved specialized leaves that trap unsuspecting bugs and critters to supplement their diet. Natures ability to perfect itself, is something to behold isn’t it? Upon research I discovered there are many species of Pitcher Plant, some tropical and some not. Saracenia purpurea in particular can survive down to zone 2! This species in particular has stunning color and a smaller profile that would be perfect to tuck into spaces around a landscape. The intricate cup shaped, colorful leaves would be a very cool conversation piece in a space. While, its low maintenance needs make life around your home easier.
Where to Use Pitcher Plants in Your Landscaping
The vast majority of Pitcher Plants will have to be grown indoors here in Indiana. However, get your hands on Saracenia purpurea and try your hand at growing it outdoors! For essentially all Pitcher Plants the best growing media is something lower in fertility, think peat moss. Keep your Pitcher Plant WELL watered and even consider planting it in a bog like setting if it is available to you. Plant it in full sun and enjoy your new unique addition! I would use this plant on a wooded edge that stays damp all year or in a rocky stone filled space. I love using tropical varieties as a potted accent in and around my house.
What does Eagleson Landscape Co. Think?
I am going to give the plant itself an A. It has great appeal indoors and could be such a cool addition to a landscape outdoors. Easy to maintain overall and beautiful, there really is not much to 
dislike about the plant itself. However, I will lower its overall grade to a B due to the challenge of first even finding this for sale and then for being a little more difficult to fit into a landscaping project. An incredible plant, some of which are endangered, I encourage you to check out this website here to read more.
