Charlotte plant lovers will have a rare opportunity to shop hundreds of insect-eating plants during a one-day-only pop-up at the Charlotte Regional Farmers Market next weekend.
On Saturday, July 18, from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Carnivorous Plants by Kenny Coogan will transform part of the market into a showcase of some of the world’s most unusual plants. Visitors will be able to browse hundreds of carnivorous species, learn how they work, and purchase plants that are rarely found at traditional garden centers.
The nursery is based in Winston-Salem, but owner Kenny Coogan says the public normally can’t visit.
“Our state-certified nursery is not open to the public. The only chance to catch these amazing plants are at pop-ups,” Coogan said.
Coogan and his family recently relocated from Florida after hurricanes caused tens of thousands of dollars in damage to their business.
“We moved from Florida to North Carolina last May after suffering tens of thousands of dollars in damages from hurricanes. We are super excited to call North Carolina home and excited to be doing a one-day pop-up at the Charlotte Regional Farmers Market,” he said.
The event will feature a wide variety of carnivorous plants, including:
- Venus flytraps
- Tropical pitcher plants (Nepenthes)
- North American pitcher plants (Sarracenia)
- Sundews (Drosera)
- Mexican butterworts (Pinguicula)
One of the biggest attractions will be “PING-A-PALOOZA,” a large display of colorful Mexican butterworts. These plants are popular because they naturally trap fungus gnats and fruit flies while also serving as decorative houseplants.
Beyond the novelty, the event offers families a chance to see evolution, ecology, and natural pest control in action.
With hundreds of plants expected and a strong following among collectors, organizers recommend arriving early for the best selection.
