Description of Sarracenia flava var. atropurpurea (Blackwater, North Florida) MS-F3
Sarracenia flava var. atropurpurea (Blackwater, North Florida) F3 is a selected clone originating from the Blackwater area of the Florida Panhandle. F3 was selected by Matt Soper of Hampshire Carnivorous Plants for its strong red colour, good growth and classic Sarracenia atropurpurea form.
The pitchers are tall and upright, with the long, tapering shape typical of Sarracenia flava. Mature traps develop a rich red colour over almost the entire pitcher. The tube starts with warmer red and bronze tones before darkening as the trap ages, while fine veins remain visible beneath the heavier pigmentation.
The upper pitcher becomes particularly dark. The throat and column develop deep crimson to burgundy tones, continuing upwards into the lid. Unlike flava varieties where the lid remains green or yellow, a well-coloured atropurpurea should develop red pigmentation across the lid as well as the tube. F3 does this particularly well.
The lid is broad and held above the open mouth, with a gently pointed tip and a relatively smooth outline. Its upper surface develops dark red to maroon colouration, while the interior of the pitcher can show brighter crimson tones when illuminated by sunlight. The lip also colours strongly, tying the upper and lower sections together.
F3 is a vigorous clone and produces substantial pitchers once established. Light levels have a major effect on its appearance. Grow it in the brightest position available to bring out the full Sarracenia flava var. atropurpurea colour. Under strong sun, mature pitchers develop the deep, near-uniform red colouring for which this Blackwater selection is known.
Plant photos above are of our Sarracenia flava var. atropurpurea (Blackwater, North Florida) MS-F3 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.