The Gardens Experience
Kenneth E. Nelson Carnivorous Plant House
The Carnivorous Plant House is the only one of its kind in the United States
because it is a public exhibit designed in one room dedicated exclusively
to carnivorous plants.
Carnivorous plants have bewitched mankind for centuries. Their juices and fluids were used in ancient exorcism ceremonies, medieval medicines and magic potions, or mixed with hog's lard and applied to wounds. The inspiration for terrifying legends, social clubs and delightful poetry, their savage behavior continues to enchant us all.
These unusual plants are very diverse; they come in all shapes and sizes, and are found all over the world. The most familiar of these is the Venus flytrap, Dionaea muscipula. This fascinating plant has unique leaves which, when triggered by unsuspecting prey, close like a steel trap. The Venus Fly Trap is not alone in its ability to trap its own food; in fact, there are over 550 known species of carnivorous plants. You will enjoy experiencing a broad sampling of these unusual plants here including pitcher plants from Africa and the United States.