Description
Scolopendra sp. ‘Sumatran Purple’ — Sumatran Purple Centipede | Purple Giant | Red Rosie
Known by several names in the hobby — Sumatran Purple, Purple Giant, Red Rosie — this spectacular centipede from the rainforests of Sumatra, Indonesia is one of the most visually electric giant centipedes in the world. The coloration is the entire story: a vivid, almost neon purple that pushes toward hot pink — bright, saturated, and completely unreal-looking in person. Under good lighting, this animal glows. It looks like something that shouldn’t exist.
This is not a subtle animal. It is a showstopper that makes people question whether it’s real.
Why Collectors Love This Species
Vivid purple-pink coloration — bright, saturated purple that pushes toward hot pink; one of the most vibrant and visually electric colorations of any centipede in the hobby
Looks almost artificial — the intensity of the color is so extreme it photographs like a painted model; in person it’s even more striking
Multiple hobby names — known as Sumatran Purple, Purple Giant, and Red Rosie; one of the most recognized and sought-after centipedes in the hobby
Impressive size — a true giant Scolopendra with a large, robust build and commanding enclosure presence
Sumatran locality — native to the tropical rainforests of Sumatra; a geographically distinct and highly desirable provenance
Extreme rarity — seldom available in the US market; a genuine trophy specimen for serious collectors
Care Overview
Origin: Old World — Sumatra, Indonesia
Enclosure: Large, secure terrestrial setup with escape-proof lid; deep substrate (5–8″) with cork bark or flat rock hides
Temperature: 76–86°F
Humidity: Moderate to high — 75–85%; keep substrate consistently moist on one side; mist lightly as needed
Diet: Large crickets, roaches, and other substantial prey; a powerful, aggressive feeder
Venom: ⚠️ Like all large Old World Scolopendra, this species possesses medically significant venom. Bites from large specimens are extremely painful and can cause intense localized pain, severe swelling, nausea, and systemic symptoms requiring medical attention. Never handle — use long tongs for all maintenance without exception.
Experience Level: Advanced — for experienced invertebrate keepers only
Live Arrival Guarantee
Every specimen ships with our Live Arrival Guarantee. In the unlikely event of a DOA, photo and video documentation of the unopened or just-opened package is required to process a claim. Contact us immediately upon receipt.
