Cobra Lily
 The cobra lily, which is native to India, is extremely popular for
its unique feeding habits. It is actually one of the world’s carnivorous
plants. The cobra lily takes its name from the shape of the stem prior
to the opening of the spate. With proper care, it can reach up to four
feet in height. However, most domestically grown cobra lilies are much
shorter. Each of the plant’s tubers sport two leaves with a spathe at
the top. The spathe is shaped like a funnel with a brown exterior and
white interior. It is here that the plant traps its insect prey. Unlike
other carnivorous plants, the cobra lily is actually common in more
temperate regions. It feeds less than once per month on small insects.
Caring for a cobra lily requires considerable attention. The plant
needs to have water flushed over its roots daily so they never dry out.
Additionally, it requires a large pot to accommodate its large root
system. As for the soil, the cobra lily requires a very organic base,
such as living sphagnum moss. The plant also needs to be kept at a
relatively cool temperature between fifty and seventy-five degrees
Fahrenheit. Unlike many other carnivorous plants, the cobra lily can
survive in moderate humidity, which makes it more amenable to temperate
climates. The cobra lily needs indirectly sunlight, such as that
filtered through an exposed window, and requires generous misting. The
cobra lily should never be fertilized. Instead, you can feed it live
insects every six weeks. |
