Cephalotus has a reputation as a diva. It mostly isn't — it's just slow, and it hates having its roots disturbed. Give it bright light and a well-drained mix and let it be.
Light: Very bright. Strong direct morning sun or bright grow lights bring out the near-black coloration; deep shade keeps pitchers green and small.
Water: Keep the mix damp, never swampy. Unlike Sarracenia, Cephalotus resents sitting in deep standing water — water from the top or use a very shallow tray that dries between fillings. Mineral-free water only.
Soil: A loose, airy mix — peat cut generously with perlite and coarse sand (roughly 1:1:1). Drainage matters more than the exact recipe.
Temperature: Happy at ordinary room-to-greenhouse temperatures (55–85°F). Cooler nights encourage color. Protect from hard freezes.
Feeding: Occasional small insects in the pitchers if grown indoors; nothing needed outdoors.
The golden rule: Don't fuss. Cephalotus sulks after repotting, dividing, or big environmental swings — sometimes for months — then resumes as if nothing happened. Repot rarely, and take root damage seriously.