If you are looking to create a true house of horrors this Halloween then look no further, these carnivorous plants will make your hair stand on end with their predatory nature.
With five different types of trapping mechanisms these plants use their unique ability like a vampire to gain additional nutrients from their prey.
Venus flytrap (Dionaea muscipula)
Possibly the most well-known species of predatory plant, the Venus flytrap uses its snap trap to feast on insects and small spiders with its animal like jaws.
Once they have caught their unsuspecting victim digestive enzymes secreted from their glands help to decompose the helpless insect. Terrifying!
Cobra lily (Darlingtonia californica)
Although the name may suggest that this species of carnivorous plant attacks its prey much like a snake, it is in fact its looks that gives the cobra lily its name. Sorry plants vs. zombie lovers, this one won’t keep you safe over Halloween!
Once the insect is lured into the hooded end of the leaf it falls down its tubular stem to be digested in the fluid contents.
Monkey cups (Nepenthes)
Don’t let the name of this species food you, they are far from being as cute and cheeky as a monkey. With prey usually consisting of insects; small vertebrates such as lizards and frogs have been known to fall victim to them.
A slippery entrance and a waxy coating along the upper inside of the trap make it nearly impossible for its prey to escape. The plant version of a true horror house.
Sundews (Drosera)
Imagine Sundews as the evil monster octopus of the plant world. The sticky glandular hairs ensure their prey is helpless before it slowly rolls up the edges of the leaf in order to digest it.
Sundews are incredibly specific with the types of insects it attracts to feast on and to use as pollinators with little overlap. When did monsters become so picky?
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