Cobra Plant Seeds - Ornamental Carnivorous Plant

Cobra Plant is a rare carnivorous perennial known for its striking tubular leaves with hooded tips that resemble a cobra’s head. These specialized leaves trap and digest insects, making the plant both fascinating and unique in appearance and function. Native to cool bog and seepage habitats, it is best suited for bog gardens or controlled environments where moisture and temperature can be carefully maintained.

This plant is considered advanced to grow due to its specific requirement for cool roots, acidic soil, and pure water. It is highly valued by collectors of carnivorous plants and specialty garden enthusiasts.

Features

• Rare carnivorous perennial plant
• Distinctive cobra-shaped trapping leaves
• Insect-catching and insect-digesting plant
• Ideal for bog gardens and specialty collections
• Requires cool, wet, acidic growing conditions
• Highly ornamental and exotic appearance
• Best suited for experienced growers

Specifications

• Scientific Name: Darlingtonia californica
• Common Name (US): Cobra Plant / Cobra Lily
• Seed Type / Variety: Carnivorous Bog Plant Variety
• Growth Habit: Perennial carnivorous herb
• USDA Zones: 7-9 (requires cool root conditions)
• Planting Season: Spring
• Growing Season: Spring through Fall (winter dormancy)
• Sowing Season: Late winter to early spring
• Sowing Season With Specific Months: February, March, April
• Germination Time and Conditions: 30–90+ days; requires cold stratification and consistently cool temperatures
• Sunlight Requirements: Full sun to partial shade (cool root zone essential)
• Soil Requirements: Acidic, nutrient-poor bog mix (sphagnum peat, perlite, sand)
• Watering Needs: High; must use rain or distilled water, keep constantly moist
• Mature Plant Size: 12–36 inches tall
• Plant Spacing: 12–18 inches apart