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Description
Drosera Macrantha, commonly known as the large-flowered sundew, is a carnivorous plant that belongs to the Droseraceae family. It is native to the southwestern region of Western Australia and is found in sandy and peaty soils. The plant is characterized by its rosette of leaves that are covered in tentacle-like glands that secrete a sticky substance to trap insects. It is a perennial plant that blooms from August to December.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Droseraceae |
| Genus | Drosera |
Appearance
The Drosera Macrantha plant has a rosette of leaves that can grow up to 6 inches in diameter. The leaves are covered in tentacle-like glands that secrete a sticky substance to trap insects. The plant produces long flowering stems that can reach up to 16 inches in height. The flowers are pink or white and have a diameter of approximately 1 inch. The plant’s leaves and flowers make it a beautiful addition to any garden.
Care Guide
Drosera Macrantha requires specific care to thrive. The following are some tips for taking care of your plant:
- Water: The plant requires moist soil at all times. It is recommended to use distilled or rainwater for watering.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization as it obtains its nutrients from the insects it traps.
- Soil: The plant requires a well-draining soil mix that is low in nutrients. A mix of peat and perlite is recommended.
- Sunlight: The plant requires full sun to partial shade. It is recommended to provide the plant with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
While Drosera Macrantha is relatively disease-resistant, it is susceptible to certain pests. The most common pests that affect this plant are spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. These pests can be controlled through regular inspection and the use of insecticidal soap. The plant is also susceptible to root rot, which can be prevented by ensuring that the soil is well-draining and not over-watering the plant.
Habitat
Drosera Macrantha is native to the southwestern region of Western Australia and can be found growing in sandy and peaty soils. The plant is adapted to the nutrient-poor soils of its habitat and has evolved to obtain its nutrients from the insects it traps.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Drosera Macrantha be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors as long as it is provided with adequate sunlight.
Q: How often should I water Drosera Macrantha?
A: The plant should be watered whenever the soil starts to dry out. It is recommended to use distilled or rainwater for watering.
Q: Does Drosera Macrantha require fertilization?
A: No, the plant obtains its nutrients from the insects it traps and does not require fertilization.
Q: What is the best soil mix for Drosera Macrantha?
A: The plant requires a well-draining soil mix that is low in nutrients. A mix of peat and perlite is recommended.
Related Plants
- Drosera Capensis
- Drosera Binata
- Drosera Aliciae
- Drosera Filiformis
References
- “Drosera Macrantha.” Australian National Botanic Gardens. Accessed 1 Oct 2021. https://www.anbg.gov.au/gnp/interns-2002/drosera-macrantha.html
- “Drosera Macrantha.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 1 Oct 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=e766
- “Drosera Macrantha.” Plant Care Today. Accessed 1 Oct 2021. https://plantcaretoday.com/drosera-macrantha.html
