Huntsman's cap

In spring, sarracenia produces pretty purple-red flowers - 5cm (2in) across. It likes nutrient-poor, acidic soils and is associated with streams and ponds, preferring the damp soil conditions. This rosette-forming perennial has rolled leaves ingeniously forming a vertical tube. Water collects in the tube, attracting insects. Once on the rim the insect loses its footing and slips into the water. After a short period the insect decomposes and the plant absorbs its nutrients. This plant originates from the Canadian Arctic to New Jersey in the US, where the climate can be cold in winter. British gardeners will also be able to grow it outside all year. However, since it likes boggy, acidic soils it may be simpler to grow it in a container. Water the plant with rainwater because limey water kills it.