Darlingtonia californica 'Torr' Tissue Culture Plant – Cobra Lily Pitcher Plant for Sale
Add one of the most unique and fascinating carnivorous plants in the world to your collection with Darlingtonia californica 'Torr', the famous Cobra Lily. This rare California native is instantly recognizable by its upright, hooded pitchers that resemble striking cobras with forked “fangs.” A true collector’s plant and a conversation starter.
Why Darlingtonia californica 'Torr' is Truly Special
Iconic Cobra Appearance — Tall, slender pitchers (12–24+ inches) feature a distinctive bulbous head with a prominent white “tongue” (fishtail appendage) and translucent “windows” that confuse trapped prey. The 'Torr' clone is known for strong growth, excellent color, and reliable pitcher production.
Mesmerizing Trap Mechanism — Unlike Sarracenia, Darlingtonia has a sophisticated downward-facing entrance and uses “areolae” (light-penetrating windows) to exhaust insects until they fall into the digestive fluid below.
Striking Coloration — Bright green pitchers with heavy red venation and maroon highlights, especially in strong light and cool conditions.
Rare & Sought-After — One of the most unusual pitcher plants in cultivation. Native only to a small region of northern California and southern Oregon.
Tissue Culture Excellence — Lab-propagated for vigorous, pest-free, disease-free plants that are true-to-type and establish faster than divisions.
This is the perfect choice for enthusiasts ready for a rewarding challenge and a truly one-of-a-kind carnivorous plant.
Easy Care Guide for Darlingtonia californica 'Torr'
The Cobra Lily has specific needs that differ from most other pitcher plants — cool roots and excellent drainage are essential for success:
Light Bright indirect to full direct sun (4–8 hours). Strong light promotes rich red venation and healthy pitcher development.
Water Keep soil constantly moist to wet. Use only distilled water, rainwater, or reverse-osmosis water. Many growers use the tray method with ice cubes or very cool water to keep roots cold during hot weather.
Soil A 50/50 mix of long-fiber sphagnum moss and perlite (or a specialized Darlingtonia mix). Excellent drainage is critical — the plant hates warm, stagnant roots.
Temperature Prefers cool conditions: Daytime 60–75 °F (15–24 °C), cooler at night. Struggles in hot summers above 85 °F. No true winter dormancy required, but it appreciates cooler winter temperatures (45–55 °F).
Humidity High humidity (60–80%+) is ideal. Grows best in cool greenhouses, terrariums, or outdoor setups in mild coastal climates.
Feeding No supplemental feeding needed — the unique cobra traps are very effective at catching fungus gnats, flies, and other small insects.
With proper cool-root care, Darlingtonia californica 'Torr' will produce tall, dramatic pitchers year after year and slowly form impressive clumps.
Ready to grow your own Cobra Lily? Limited quantities of fresh tissue culture Darlingtonia californica 'Torr' are now available. Order today for healthy, lab-grown plants shipped safely to your door.
Questions? Message me — happy to help with acclimation tips!
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