Visiting Matthew Soper: A Day Among Sarracenia Giants
Few names in carnivorous plants carry as much respect as Matthew Soper's. As the founder of Hampshire Carnivorous Plants Ltd and an RHS master grower, Matt is one of the leading authorities on growing these plants, especially his biggest passion: Sarracenia, the American pitcher plant.
A Last Minute Visit
In the summer of 2025, I got an unexpected chance to visit Matt at his nursery. The trip came together at the last minute, and I'm really grateful he made time for me, especially since Hampshire Carnivorous Plants is only open to the public on select open days through the year. Even on short notice, Matt showed me around himself, and it ended up being one of the highlights of my trip.
One of the Best Sarracenia Collections in the UK
Hampshire Carnivorous Plants has one of the largest and best Sarracenia collections in the UK. Tall S. flava, hybrids in every color you can think of, and bench after bench of strong, well grown plants. You can see decades of careful breeding and selection everywhere you look.
Matt's reputation as a meticulous grower is well earned. Whether we were talking about a new cross or looking at an old favorite, it was obvious how much these plants mean to him. Sarracenia are the main event, but he also grows Nepenthes, Drosera, Dionaea, and more.
A Longtime Connection
The best part of the visit was Matt himself. We first met during Laurent Taerwe's UK visit in 2016, then again at California Carnivores in 2018. His hospitality, knowledge, and willingness to share made the day.
If you love Sarracenia and ever find yourself in the UK, plan ahead and go to one of Hampshire Carnivorous Plants' open days. It's more than a nursery, it's a destination.
Want to grow your own? Here's how I grow Sarracenia outdoors.
Shop Sarracenia
Pitcher plants in a wide range of hybrids and species, grown right here in Colorado.
Happy Growing
Jeremiah Harris
Jeremiahsplants.com