Venus Flytrap B52 – The Legendary Giant of the Carnivorous Plant World
Standing in the warm glow of a summer greenhouse, it’s hard not to stop in your tracks. Among rows of jaw-like traps, one plant towers in confidence – traps broad and fierce, their interiors lit with a deep crimson blush. This is no ordinary flytrap. This is B52 – the cultivar that redefined “giant” for collectors worldwide.
From Humble Origins to Cultivar Royalty
The B52 story began in the early 2000s when flytrap enthusiasts were already chasing “bigger and redder” plants. Selective breeding, careful culling, and a dash of good luck gave rise to a plant whose traps could regularly exceed 5cm in ideal conditions. Registered as a cultivar in 2006, B52 quickly rose to fame among growers who wanted the biggest, boldest flytrap they could find.
Today, B52 is a benchmark in the Venus flytrap world – the yardstick by which other “giants” are measured.
What Makes B52 Different?
While typical Venus flytraps grow traps of about 2–3cm, B52 pushes well past that, with mature plants producing traps in the 4–6cm range under perfect conditions. But it’s not just the size – the traps have a commanding, broad shape, long trigger hairs, and rich coloration that deepens in bright sunlight.
It’s a plant with presence. Even in a mixed collection, your eyes are drawn to it.
A Seasonal Performer
In spring, B52 emerges from dormancy with a flush of fresh traps, starting shorter and quickly elongating. By mid-summer, the traps reach their maximum size – this is the season for record-breakers and deep red interiors. Come autumn, growth slows and the traps begin to shorten again, preparing for winter dormancy when the plant rests as a tight bulb beneath the soil.
This natural rhythm is vital – skipping dormancy can weaken even the strongest B52 over time.
Growing B52 in South Africa
South African growers are in a unique position – our long summers and abundant sunlight give B52 a strong growth window. The key is replicating its natural habitat:
- Full Sun: At least 6 hours of direct light daily to develop large traps and rich color.
- Water: Rainwater, distilled water, or reverse osmosis water only. Keep the soil moist, not waterlogged.
- Soil: A nutrient-free carnivorous plant mix – usually sphagnum peat moss and perlite.
- Dormancy: Provide a cool winter rest period from May to August in SA. Growth will slow or stop – this is normal.
Collector Quote:
“B52 was the first ‘giant’ flytrap I bought, and it’s still the one visitors notice first in my collection. It’s not just hype – in full sun, it’s a monster.” – Johan, Pretoria
Myth-Busting Corner: Can B52 Eat Mice?
Short answer: No. While B52 traps can grow impressively large, they’re designed for catching insects and spiders, not rodents, frogs, or the occasional sheep (yes, that YouTube video is fake!). In real-world growing, 5–6cm traps are spectacular – and that’s where the magic lies.
B52 vs DCXL – A Collector’s Curiosity
| Trait | B52 | DCXL |
|---|---|---|
| Average Mature Trap Size | 4–6cm | Up to 5–6cm |
| Coloration | Green exterior, deep red interior in full sun | Bright green with red to maroon interiors |
| Growth Habit | Ground-hugging traps, wide and robust | Taller petioles, slightly more upright traps |
Both are legends – but B52 remains the gold standard for many growers, especially those chasing classic proportions and reliable size.
Feeding & Maintenance
B52 thrives when allowed to catch its own food. Outdoors, flies, ants, and other insects are fair game. Indoors, occasional hand-feeding with live or freshly killed insects can boost growth. Avoid feeding anything larger than one-third the trap’s size.
Trim dead leaves in late winter before new growth starts, and repot every 1–2 years in fresh carnivorous plant soil to maintain health.
Collector Quote:
“I’ve grown dozens of flytrap cultivars over the years, but if I could only keep one, it would be B52. It’s just so dependable – a real showpiece every summer.” – Melissa, Cape Town
Why Every Collector Should Own a B52
Whether you’re a beginner looking for your first “wow” plant or a seasoned collector chasing the biggest traps, B52 delivers. It’s living proof that selective breeding can produce spectacular results without losing the character of the original Venus flytrap.
Ready to add a legend to your collection? Our B52 Venus flytraps are locally grown, fully acclimatised to South African conditions, and come with a detailed care sheet. Give this plant the sun and rest it deserves, and it will reward you with jaw-dropping traps season after season.
