Plants are great. But plants that also specialize in pest control? Flawless. Carnivorous plants don’t just sound like something exotic—some of them look like something straight out of a Tim Burton movie. You can easily find some varieties in home improvement stores like Home Depot and Lowes, and if you’ve ever been curious, maybe it’s time to give them a shot. Here are a few carnivorous plants you should think about adding to your plant collection.

1. The Classic Venus Flytrap

It’s probably the most famous of the carnivorous plant world—the Venus flytrap. You’ve seen them in movies, cartoons, and maybe even in your childhood science class. This plant is famous for its jaw-like leaves that snap shut when unsuspecting insects wander in. It’s like nature’s version of a bear trap, only way cooler and less dangerous (unless you’re an insect, of course).

Venus Flytraps are relatively easy to care for. They thrive in bright, indirect light and love humid environments. Just be sure not to overfeed them—despite their name, they don’t actually need to be fed insects if they’re already catching their own. But let’s be honest, who wouldn’t want to show off their plant’s fly-catching skills at the next dinner party?

2. The Elegant Pitcher Plant

The pitcher plant is a real beauty with its elongated, vase-like leaves that form a perfect trap for insects. These leaves fill with a digestive liquid that breaks down the prey that falls in, turning it into a nutrient-rich soup for the plant to slurp up. Pitcher plants come in many shapes and sizes, with some varieties producing stunning red and purple hues. They thrive in bright, indirect light and need consistently moist soil.

3. The Sticky Trap (aka the Sundew)

If you’re looking for something a little more subtle but equally fascinating, consider the Sundew. These plants have delicate, tentacle-like structures covered in sticky droplets that glisten in the light. When an insect lands on these droplets, it’s game over—the bug gets stuck and is slowly digested by the plant. Sundews are small but mighty, and they come in a variety of species with different leaf shapes and sizes. They thrive in bright, indirect light and prefer a humid environment. Imagine having a mini forest of sparkling Sundews on your coffee table—talk about a conversation starter.

4. The Butterwort

If you prefer your plants with a simple look, the butterwort is a perfect choice. This plant’s leaves are smooth and flat and produce a sticky substance that traps insects. The leaves are usually bright green, but some species can have beautiful, delicate flowers that add a pop of color. Butterworts are low-maintenance and thrive in bright, indirect light with slightly moist soil. They’re perfect for those who want a carnivorous plant without the high drama of snapping jaws or deep pitchers. Plus, they’re great for controlling small insect populations in your home, like fruit flies and gnats. A win-win!

5. The Showstopping Cobra Lily

If you really want to impress your guests, the cobra lily is the plant for you. Named for its resemblance to a rearing cobra, this plant has striking, hooded leaves with a curious, twisted appearance. The leaves have transparent windows that confuse insects, leading them deeper into the trap. Cobra lilies are a bit more challenging to care for—they require cool temperatures and consistently moist, even wet soil. However, their unique appearance and fascinating trapping mechanism make them well worth the effort.

6. The Exotic Tropical Pitcher Plant

If you want to bring a bit of the jungle into their home, this is a must-have. These plants have large, hanging pitchers that dangle from their vines, creating a lush, exotic look. The pitchers can be incredibly colorful, with shades of red, yellow, and green, making them a standout addition to any plant collection.

Tropical Pitcher Plants require bright, indirect light and high humidity to thrive. They also need to be watered with distilled or rainwater, as tap water can harm them. Despite the extra care, their dramatic appearance and efficient insect-catching capabilities make them a fantastic choice for any plant lover looking to add a bit of the wild to their home.