[1] It also occurs in other non-carnivorous plants such as Strychnos spinosa (Loganiaceae)[2] and Patrinia heterophylla (Caprifoliaceae).

Analysis of S. flava extracts was prompted by their use as a folk remedy by people of the Okefenokee swamp region[4] Sarracenin is believed to be derived from loganin, with either morronoside or secologanin serving as intermediates in the biosynthetic process.

[3] Sarracenin is the primary volatile present in the insect-attracting spoons of Heliamphora species.

When Heliamphora plants were grown in a laboratory setting, sarracenin was rarely present in these spoons.

[5] Sarracenin is also present in the pitchers and lids of Darlingtonia californica and many Sarracenia species, likely serving the same purpose as in Heliamphora.