Pitcher plant (Sarracenia purpurea) – A carnivorous plant found in a few places on Beaver Island. Flowers bloom during late spring and early summer; this particular plant is displaying a yellow flower. Leaves of the pitcher plant are pitcher-shaped and hollow to allow for water accumulation. They are large and purple-veined to attract insects, which get stuck in the accumulated water. The inside of leaves are covered with long downward-pointing hairs, which make it difficult for insects to climb out. Pitcher plants convert insects into nutrients, especially nitrogen. This extra source of nutrietns allows pitcher plants to live in harsh environments. Historically, doctors considered the plant to be a diuretic and a laxative. It was also said to be used as a cure for smallpox and to shorten the duration of the disease. This was not proven scientifically.