Cephalotus follicularis

Albany pitcher plant

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Taxonomy

Description

Cephalotus follicularis, the Albany pitcher plant, is a compact Australian carnivore with charming, toothy pitchers that lure and digest insects. It thrives in bright light, cool roots, and an airy, nutrient-free mix—rewarding patient growers with colorful pitchers and quirky personality.

Common Names

Albany pitcher plantAustralian pitcher plantCephalotus

Context

nativeRegion

Southwestern coastal Western Australia near Albany, in sandy, peaty seepages and heathlands.

usdaZones

9–11 (protect from frost/heat extremes)

companionPlants

Drosera binata, Drosera pygmaea (pygmy sundews), Utricularia sandersonii, Stylidium debile (trigger plant), Small sedges (e.g., Lepidosperma spp.)

culturalUses

Grown as a horticultural curiosity and educational specimen for carnivory; helps control small gnats; emblematic of Australian plant conservation.

Care

Care Requirements

LightVery bright indirect light to several hours of gentle morning sun; strong light brings deep pitcher color. Avoid scorching midday heat without acclimation.

WateringUse only rain, RO, or distilled water. Keep evenly moist with a shallow tray (0.5–1 cm); let the top layer just begin to dry before refilling. Do not waterlog or keep the crown soggy.

SoilNutrient-free, airy, acidic mix such as 1:1 peat and perlite with silica sand; excellent drainage and aeration are crucial. No compost or standard potting soil.

FertilizerDo not fertilize the soil. Occasional insects are sufficient; optional very dilute foliar feed sparingly if needed.

HumidityPrefers 50–70% with good airflow; can adapt to moderate household humidity if roots stay cool and soil is airy.

TemperatureCool-temperate: days 65–80°F (18–27°C), nights 50–60°F (10–16°C). Protect from prolonged heat >90°F (32°C) and from hard frost.

Growth & Life Cycle

HabitSmall, clumping rosette producing both non-carnivorous leaves and stout, toothed pitchers.

Mature SizeRosette typically 4–8 in (10–20 cm) across; pitchers about 0.8–2 in (2–5 cm) tall.

Growth RateSlow-growing; requires patience to size up.

BloomingSends tall scapes with small white flowers, usually late spring to summer; flowering can slow vegetative growth.

DormancyCool-season rest; growth slows and more flat leaves appear in winter. Not a strict dormancy but appreciates cooler nights.

Propagation

MethodsLeaf or pitcher pullings with a heel, Division of mature clumps/crowns, Root cuttings, Seed (fresh; often benefits from cold stratification)

DifficultyModerate to challenging

Best SeasonSpring to early summer for cuttings and division; sow fresh seed in late fall–winter after 6–8 weeks of cold stratification.

Maintenance & Notes

PruningRemove spent pitchers and leaves to improve airflow. Consider cutting flower stalks to conserve energy unless seed is desired.

RepottingEvery 2–3 years in spring or early summer. Use a deep, well-drained pot to keep roots cool; handle the crown and roots gently.

Pests & DiseasesWatch for aphids, mealybugs, scale, spider mites, and fungal issues. Most problems stem from poor airflow or overwatering leading to crown/root rot.

ToxicityNon-toxic to people and pets; pitchers are designed for insects.

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