The Purple Venus Flytrap (Dionaea muscipula) is an eye-catching carnivorous plant admired for its richly colored trap interiors and bold, sculptural leaves. This compact perennial produces a low rosette of hinged traps that naturally open and close through its normal growth cycle. Known for its dramatic pigmentation, the purple form adds a rare and exotic look to terrariums, bright indoor spaces, and outdoor bog-style gardens.

Features

• Striking purple interior traps with bold visual contrast
• Compact carnivorous perennial perfect for display planting
• Ideal centerpiece for terrariums, windowsills, and bog gardens
• Natural trap movement as part of its normal growth process
• Highly collectible ornamental variety for rare plant enthusiasts

Specifications

• Common Name: Purple Venus Flytrap
• Scientific Name: Dionaea muscipula
• Type: Live carnivorous perennial
• Growth Habit: Low rosette of hinged trap leaves
• Trap Color: Deep purple interior (varies by light exposure)
• Flower Color: White (spring to summer)
• USDA Zones: 7–11 outdoors; suitable indoors anywhere
• Height: 3–8 inches
• Spread: 4–6 inches
• Light Requirements: Full sun or strong indoor grow lighting
• Soil: Peat or sphagnum moss with no added nutrients
• Water Needs: Distilled or rainwater; requires constant moisture
• Maintenance Level: Moderate (nutrient-free care)
• Pollinator Value: Flowers support small beneficial insects

Care Guide

• Place in bright sun or high-intensity grow lighting to deepen trap color.
• Use rainwater or distilled water only; avoid tap water.
• Keep soil evenly moist; never fertilize or enrich the soil.
• Plant in pure peat or sphagnum with no nutrients.
• Maintain high humidity for healthy trap formation.
• Let traps open and close naturally; avoid interference.
• Repot every 1–2 years using fresh nutrient-free media.
• Outdoors, keep in a moist bog-style container or garden section.