Stanley Rehder Carnivorous Plant Garden
Discover the fascinating world of carnivorous plants, including the iconic Venus flytrap, in this protected Wilmington sanctuary.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Plants are most active and visible.
Stanley Rehder Carnivorous Plant Garden
Best Time
Plants are most active and visible.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the fascinating world of carnivorous plants, including the iconic Venus flytrap, in this protected Wilmington sanctuary.
"A fantastic place to see many Venus fly traps and other carnivorous plants up close!
"👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Ground can be uneven and damp; closed-toe shoes are recommended. Watch for snakes!
🚫 Leave the Dogs at Home
This is a protected habitat, so furry friends are not allowed to preserve the delicate ecosystem.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Venus Flytraps in Their Natural Habitat
Stanley Rehder Carnivorous Plant Garden
Witness the iconic Venus flytrap, native only to a 100km radius around Wilmington, thriving in its natural wetland environment.
Diverse Carnivorous Plant Collection
Stanley Rehder Carnivorous Plant Garden
Explore a fascinating array of carnivorous plants, including various pitcher plants and sundews, showcasing nature's ingenuity.
Educational Signage and Trails
Stanley Rehder Carnivorous Plant Garden
Learn about the unique adaptations of these plants through informative signs along well-maintained, accessible walking paths.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Flytrap Spotting
Respect the Garden's Delicate Ecosystem
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Ground can be uneven and damp; closed-toe shoes are recommended. Watch for snakes!
🚫 Leave the Dogs at Home
This is a protected habitat, so furry friends are not allowed to preserve the delicate ecosystem.
📸 Capture the Details
Many plants are small; get close (but stay on the path!) to appreciate their intricate beauty.
💡 Free Admission!
Enjoy this unique natural wonder without any cost. Donations are appreciated.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Ground can be uneven and damp; closed-toe shoes are recommended. Watch for snakes!
🚫 Leave the Dogs at Home
This is a protected habitat, so furry friends are not allowed to preserve the delicate ecosystem.
📸 Capture the Details
Many plants are small; get close (but stay on the path!) to appreciate their intricate beauty.
💡 Free Admission!
Enjoy this unique natural wonder without any cost. Donations are appreciated.
📅 Check for Events
The annual Flytrap Frolic offers family fun, games, and educational activities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Stanley Rehder Carnivorous Plant Garden for its unique collection of native carnivorous plants, especially the Venus flytrap, and its educational value. Many appreciate that it's a free, accessible space showcasing local biodiversity. Some note that the plants are smaller than expected and advise caution on uneven trails.
"This is a fantastic place to see many Venus fly traps and other carnivorous plants up close! Venus fly traps are only found within a 100km radius of Wilmington, which makes them a huge treasure of this area. There are many signs to help you learn more about the plants in this garden and how to spot them (some are very small). This park is an incredible way to showcase something uniquely beautiful about NC."
Jo Gaojian
"This is the first time I’ve ever left a review for something but this place deserves 5-stars. So cool to see native and endemic carnivorous plants all in one place and protected. It was a nice walk with Pitcher plants and Venus Flytraps all along. Most of the wild Flytraps are very small and easy to step on if you get off the trail, please be careful and watch your step if you do wander off."
John McGee
"We went for the flytrap frolic and my kids had a great time! It was very hot that day. However, there is some shade along the trail. You definitely want to try to find the different kinds of carnivorous plants that are smaller than you think. It kept my kids entertained."
Katie Wegman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The garden is located at 3800 Canterbury Road, Wilmington, NC, behind Alderman Elementary School.
Parking is available at the adjacent nature preserve.
Public transportation options to the general area can be researched, but direct public transit to the garden's specific entrance might be limited.
The walkways and observation areas are generally well-planned for accessibility, allowing people of all abilities to enjoy parts of the park.
The garden is open to the public year-round.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to the garden is completely free for everyone.
The garden is open year-round, but specific hours might vary. It's best to check with the Coastal Land Trust for any seasonal changes.
Yes, the annual Flytrap Frolic is a popular family event with games, crafts, and educational activities.
No, dogs and other pets are not allowed in the garden to protect the sensitive carnivorous plants and their habitat.
While admission is free, donations are welcomed and help support the maintenance and preservation of this unique natural space.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
You can see Venus flytraps, various pitcher plants, and sundews, all native to the Wilmington region.
Most visitors spend about 20-30 minutes exploring the garden, but you can linger longer if you wish.
While formal guided tours might not be daily, garden guides are often present during special events like the Flytrap Frolic.
Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes as the ground can be uneven and damp. Layers are recommended as weather can change.
Restroom facilities may be limited or located at a nearby park area; it's advisable to check beforehand or use facilities before arriving.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is allowed, and it's a great place to capture unique plant life.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide softer light, ideal for plant photography.
Generally, personal photography is fine. Professional shoots might require permits; check with the Coastal Land Trust.
Use a macro lens or zoom in on your phone. Get close to the plants (while staying on the path) to capture their intricate details.
While exciting, capturing a trap closing is rare and requires patience. Focus on the plant's unique structure and habitat.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look out for special events like the Flytrap Frolic, which provides a fun-filled day with games, crafts, and educational activities tailored for kids. Remember to keep little ones on the paths to protect the delicate plants and remind them not to touch.
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Photographers
Bring your camera and macro lens to capture the intricate details of these fascinating plants. The best light for photography is typically in the early morning or late afternoon. Remember to stay on the trails and respect the environment while you capture stunning shots.
🚶♀️ Day-Trippers from Wilmington
Spend an hour or two exploring the garden, learning about its namesake, Stanley Rehder, and the incredible carnivorous plants. It's a peaceful and educational escape that showcases something truly special about the North Carolina coast.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of the 'Flytrap Man'
His efforts ensured that the endemic Venus flytraps, which are found only within a 100km radius of Wilmington, would have a protected space to thrive. The garden, now a City of Wilmington Park managed by the Coastal Land Trust, continues his legacy by showcasing these natural wonders to the public.
Visitors can learn about Rehder's dedication through interpretive signage along the pathways, appreciating the deep connection between the local community and its extraordinary natural heritage. The garden serves as a reminder of the importance of conservation and the impact one individual can have.
Understanding Carnivorous Plants
The garden features several types of these remarkable plants. The most famous is the Venus flytrap (Dionaea muscipula), known for its hinged traps that snap shut when triggered by unsuspecting insects. You'll also find pitcher plants, which lure prey into a deep, fluid-filled cavity, and sundews, characterized by their sticky, tentacle-like glands that ensnare insects.
These plants play a vital role in their ecosystem by controlling insect populations. The garden's design aims to mimic their natural wetland habitat, providing a glimpse into the intricate balance of nature. Visitors are encouraged to observe these plants closely and learn about their unique survival strategies.
Visiting with Children
Special events like the annual Flytrap Frolic are specifically designed for families, offering games, crafts, and face painting alongside educational opportunities about the plants. These events create a fun and memorable experience, making learning about nature exciting.
While the garden is a natural habitat, it's important to remind children to stay on the marked trails and not to touch the plants. This ensures their safety and the preservation of the delicate ecosystem. The garden's free admission also makes it an accessible and budget-friendly family activity.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit