insectivorous plant (carnivorous plant) Any of several plants that have poorly developed root systems and are often found in nitrogen-deficient sandy or boggy soils. They obtain the missing nutrients by trapping, ‘digesting’ and absorbing insects. Some, such as the Venus's fly-trap (Dionaea muscipula), are active insect trappers. The sundews (Drosera) snare insects with a sticky substance and then enclose them in their leaves. Bladderworts (Utricularia) suck insects into their underwater bladders. Other plants have vase-shaped leaves, such as the pitcher plant (Sarracenia flava).

insectivorous plant See carnivorous plant.