Carnivorous plants with calyx

Leaves form into a calyx

Some carnivorous plants use their leaves to catch insects. The long catch leaves twist together to form a calyx. Other species catch the prey in bag-like traps that look like pitchers. It is not for nothing that these species are called pitcher plants.

Catch insects with the chalice

The calyx of a carnivorous plant is generally wider at the top and either tapers to a point or forms a bag or a jug below the edge. The calyxes often have a pretty, reddish color. They give off a sometimes aromatic, but sometimes unpleasant odor that attracts insects.

The upper edge of the calyx is as smooth as a mirror, so that no insect can hold on to it. It just slips into the trap.

In the lower part of the calyx there is a secretion that contains several enzymes with which the prey can be broken down and digested. If the secretion is not available, the plant cannot digest any prey. The trap then dries up and falls off.

Proper care for the formation of many chalices

So that many calyxes for catching insects can form on a carnivorous plant, the carnivore must have a suitable location and be good groomed will.

Prefer carnivorous plants:

• A bright location with lots of sun
• high humidity of more than 40 percent
• Temperatures in summer between 20 and 32 degrees
• Winter temperatures from 10 to 16 degrees

Carnivorous plants do not tolerate it when the plant substrate dries out. They also do not get lime-containing water, so that for to water only rainwater or still mineral water may be used.

Do not overwinter pitcher plants in a cool place

Pitcher plants can be overwintered at constant temperatures. Only smaller calyxes form during winter than in summer.