Identifying plants can feel tricky, but here's a simple way to understand it:

• Plant families are the big groups, like "Carnivorous Plants," which all share the ability to catch prey.

• Genus is more specific—different kinds within that family. For example, Drosera (sundews) trap bugs with sticky hair-like tentacles (trichomes) on their leaves, while Nepenthes (pitcher plants) use deep pitchers.  A plant genus will often have a scientific name, and a common name (nickname).

• Species is even more detailed—it refers to individual types within a genus. For instance, 'Drosera capensis' is a species of sundew, while 'Nepenthes rajah' is a species of pitcher plant.  A plant species will often have a scientific name, and a common name (nickname).

We offer several genus, and many species, of carnivorous plants, and knowing the genus is the first step to caring for your plant!