Cobra Lily
Darlingtonia californica
Cobra Lily is a rare carnivorous pitcher plant with hooded leaves that eerily resemble a rearing cobra. Native to cold mountain bogs of California and Oregon, it traps insects with translucent false exits in its serpent-like pitchers.
Sarraceniaceae (Pitcher Plant family)
Spring to early summer (April-July)
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: cactus (prickly pear)s and calceolaria unifloras also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
The Cobra Lily symbolizes nature's cunning and the art of deception - it lures insects with nectar and translucent "windows" that appear as exits, only to trap them in a deadly pool. The serpent-like appearance with its hooded head and forked "tongue" has made it an icon of carnivorous plants and a symbol of adaptation to harsh environments. As an endangered species, it also represents the fragility of specialized ecosystems. A persistent butterfly was once observed following the plant during its discovery expedition, highlighting the plant's magnetic attraction.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; pitchers need sun but roots must be shaded and cool
Water
Constant cold running water or very wet conditions; roots must stay cool (40-55°F ideal)
Soil
Sphagnum moss, Serpentine, Gravelly, Poor nutrient soil, Constantly moist
Expert Growing Tips
DIFFICULT TO GROW - not recommended for beginners
Critical: Keep roots cool (below 55°F) even in summer - use refrigerated water
Provide cold running water or ice cubes on soil surface in hot weather
Grow in pure sphagnum moss or carnivorous plant mix
Shade pots to prevent root heating while pitchers get sun
Use distilled or rainwater only - no tap water
Spreads via underground stolons in optimal conditions
Winter dormant - dies back to rhizomes
Awarded RHS Award of Garden Merit despite difficulty
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Carnivorous plant collections
- Bog gardens with cold water supply
- Specialty greenhouse displays
- Educational exhibits about carnivorous plants
- Conservation collections
Traditional Uses
- No medicinal uses
- Plant is not toxic but not used medicinally
- Grown purely for ornamental and educational purposes
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Cobra Lily
why is it called cobra lily?
It's called Cobra Lily because its hooded pitcher leaves with a forked appendage resemble a rearing cobra ready to strike, complete with what looks like fangs or a serpent's tongue.
are cobra lilies hard to grow?
Yes, Cobra Lilies are notoriously difficult to grow. They require cool roots (below 55°F) even in summer, constant moisture, and specific conditions that mimic their native cold mountain bogs.
how does cobra lily catch insects?
Cobra Lily traps insects using nectar to lure them in, then confuses them with translucent 'windows' that look like exits. Exhausted insects fall into a pool at the base where they're digested.
is cobra lily endangered?
Yes, Cobra Lily is considered threatened and uncommon due to its limited natural habitat in Northern California and Southern Oregon, and pressure from habitat loss and collectors.
what does cobra lily eat?
Cobra Lily eats insects and small invertebrates that fall into its pitchers. It supplements nutrients from poor bog soils through this carnivorous adaptation.
can you keep cobra lily as a houseplant?
Cobra Lily is extremely challenging as a houseplant due to its need for very cool roots and high humidity. It's best left to experienced carnivorous plant growers with specialized setups.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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Calceolaria uniflora
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