It started out with the rescue of one small Venus flytrap.

Eastern Daily Press: Predator Plants at Rackheath. Owner Steve Bunclark. Picture : ANTONY KELLYPredator Plants at Rackheath. Owner Steve Bunclark. Picture : ANTONY KELLY (Image: archant 2017)

And more than 20 years later and thousands of successful plants, a green-fingered enthusiast will be exhibiting a variety of carnivorous plants at the Creake Abbey Plant Lovers' Day this Saturday.

Steve Bunclark, 39, owner of Predator Plants in Rackheath, has one of the largest collectors of carnivorous plants in Norfolk and possibly the UK.

Made up of 20 varieties, the specialist and hardy plants get their energy from trapping and consuming animals and insects.

Mr Bunclark, from Wroxham, who started Predator Plants five years ago, said: 'It started off with one little Venus flytrap on my windowsill. It cost 10p and I managed to nurse it back to health.'

Eastern Daily Press: Predator Plants at Rackheath. Owner Steve Bunclark. Picture : ANTONY KELLYPredator Plants at Rackheath. Owner Steve Bunclark. Picture : ANTONY KELLY (Image: archant 2017)

From there, his collection expanded to two greenhouses in his garden.

For the past decade, the father-of-one has grown thousands of carnivorous plants in a large Rackheath greenhouse where he sells to the public by appointment.

He said: 'Carnivorous plants have got a really striking look. The colours are unique. The flowers are exciting to look at and the leaves are interesting. They are also very easy to look after.'

Flowers, which come out between March and May, vary from pale yellow to deep maroon.

Eastern Daily Press: Predator Plants at Rackheath. Owner Steve Bunclark. Picture : ANTONY KELLYPredator Plants at Rackheath. Owner Steve Bunclark. Picture : ANTONY KELLY (Image: archant 2017)

Leaves and the traps, which come out between May and October, can range from yellow and acid lime to fiery reds and maroons.

The majority of carnivorous plants eat small insects and flies but some species are known to eat small birds or primates and are grown across the world.

Mr Bunclark added: 'The British climate is perfect for carnivorous plants. They just need sun during the summer, cold winters, rain water and good soil. They are virtually self-sufficient. The popularity of carnivorous plants seems to be growing. They make brilliant talking points.'

The Creake Abbey Plant Lovers' Day in North Creake is taking place from 10am-4pm.and costs £4 for adults. Children under 16 can visit for free.

Mr Bunclark has exhibited at the event for the past four years.

He said: 'It makes for a nice day out.'

For more information on Predator Plants call visit www.predatorplantsltd.co.ukVisit www.creakeabbey.co.uk/plant-lovers-day