Description of Sarracenia alata var. nigropurpurea - Black Tube Large Form A60 MK
Sarracenia alata var. nigropurpurea – Black Tube Large Form A60 MK is a large-growing selection of the dark-tube pale pitcher plant.
The pitchers grow upright, with long tubes that widen towards the mouth. Dark purple-brown veins cross the green background, while heavier burgundy colouring covers much of the upper pitcher. The lower tube can retain olive-green areas rather than becoming uniformly dark. This variation leaves some pitchers visibly patterned and others almost solid maroon above the midpoint.
The darkest colouring concentrates around the throat, inside the opening and beneath the lid. These areas can approach purple-black, contrasting with any green tissue that remains between the veins. The lid curves forward over the mouth, with slightly lifted edges. Its upper surface shows bronze, red-brown or purple tones, while the underside can become considerably darker.
Light levels make a noticeable difference to this colour pattern. Give A60 MK a bright, sunny position to encourage the dark pigmentation associated with var. nigropurpurea. In shade, pitchers can remain greener or reddish-green, making the black-tubed character less apparent. The name describes its potential colouring, not a colour every pitcher maintains under all conditions.
In spring, the plant produces pale yellow to cream flowers beneath yellow-green sepals. The blooms hang from curved stalks, with broad petals surrounding the centre.
Plant photos above are of our Sarracenia alata var. nigropurpurea - Black Tube Large Form A60 MK mother plants. Divisions are taken from the mother plants and are planted into 9cm pots to be sold. Division sizes can vary greatly and will always be sent largest first. If you'd like to know the size of a plant before ordering, please feel free to contact us.