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Darlingtonia californica
(cobra lily)
The Cobra lily (Darlingtonia californica) is the United States' west coast representative of the pitfall family of Carnivorous Plants in that it captures its prey in much the same way as the pitcher plants (Sarracenia). The natural range of the cobra lily is limited to northern California and southern Oregon. This plant grows in a similar habitat as the other pitcher plants except at much higher altitudes and at much cooler temperatures. It is often found growing in streams of cold running water in the mountainous regions of the Northwest. The grower should take care to insure that this plant is kept in a cooler environment, especially the roots. This can be accomplished by growing the plant in a well drained pot and giving it plenty of drinks of cool water on those hot summer days. Sphagnum moss makes a perfect planting medium. The cobra lily also requires several hours of sunlight each day.
The upper portion of the pitcher has many almost transparent spots, much like the hooded pitcher plant, although more defined, which tend to confuse its prey into thinking there is another way out. The cobra lily is a very effective trap and the insect is usually caught. The whisker or beard- looking attachment growing from the hood is very distinguishing and sets this plant apart from being confused with Sarracenia. You can easily see the difference in the photo below.
Darlingtonia californica (cobra lily)
PHOTO: DON SCHNELL
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