What Is Earl on Lanterns? Hal Jordan’s Pet Plant Explained

Curious about the alien plant that Hal Jordan keeps as a pet in HBO’s Lanterns? Episode 2 introduces Earl Jordan, a meat-eating flower from outer space that lives in a greenhouse on Hal’s mansion grounds. With sharp teeth and a taste for beef, Earl is far from an ordinary houseplant.

Here is everything to know about Earl Jordan, covering his origins, his encounter with John Stewart, and his role in the series.

What is Lanterns’ meat eating plant, Earl Jordan?

Earl Jordan is an alien flower that Green Lantern Hal Jordan adopted during his space adventures. Subsequently, Hal brought Earl back to Earth and built a greenhouse for him on his mansion grounds. Notably, the plant exclusively eats meat, consuming beef and bison regularly.

Beyond his unusual diet, Earl Jordan stands out as a predatory alien species with distinctive physical traits. Specifically, the plant possesses actual teeth, which allow him to chew meat and gnaw on wooden spoons. Hal Jordan named the plant Earl and treated him as a pet. Meanwhile, John Stewart visits Hal’s mansion in episode 2 to retrieve the Power Battery and feed Earl.

At first, Stewart does not know what Earl is when he enters the greenhouse. He introduces himself by saying, “What’s up, man? Hey, Earl. I’m, uh… I’m John, and I’m… I’m here to feed you.” However, Earl then lunges at John Stewart and his green bird construct upon first contact. Afterward, Stewart proceeds to feed Earl a spoonful of meat before the plant devours an entire package.

Earlier in the episode, Stewart asks Hal about Earl’s identity during their conversation. Specifically, Stewart questions, “And what’s Earl? Is it a dog? Cat?” In turn, Hal’s response reveals that Earl is far stranger than any ordinary pet. Additionally, the greenhouse on Hal’s mansion grounds bears a sign simply reading “Earl.”

Ultimately, Earl Jordan adds a layer of humor and world-building to the Lanterns series. Furthermore, the alien plant demonstrates that Hal Jordan collected more than just memories from space. Earl also connects to the episode’s broader theme of Stewart discovering Hal’s unusual life. As of now, the plant remains alive and well at Hal’s Coast City mansion throughout the events of episode 2.