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Description
Drosera Pygmaea, commonly known as the pygmy sundew, is a carnivorous plant that belongs to the Droseraceae family. It is a small plant that typically grows up to 1 cm tall and is native to Western Australia. The pygmy sundew is a perennial plant that has adapted to low-nutrient environments by developing sticky leaves that trap and digest insects to gain nutrients.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Droseraceae |
| Genus | Drosera |
Appearance
The pygmy sundew has small, round leaves that are typically 2-3mm in diameter. The leaves are covered in tentacle-like structures called trichomes, which secrete a sticky substance that traps insects. The plant also produces small white flowers that bloom in the summer. The pygmy sundew is a small plant that can be grown in a terrarium or other small container.
Care Guide
Water: The pygmy sundew requires a constantly moist growing medium. It is recommended to water the plant with distilled or rainwater, as tap water can contain minerals that may harm the plant.
Fertilization: The pygmy sundew does not require fertilization, as it gains nutrients from the insects it traps and digests.
Soil: The pygmy sundew prefers a mix of peat moss and perlite or sand. The soil should be well-draining and have a pH level between 4.5 and 5.5.
Sunlight: The pygmy sundew requires bright, indirect sunlight. It can be grown under artificial lights or in a south-facing window.
Hardiness Zones: The pygmy sundew is hardy in zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The pygmy sundew is susceptible to fungal infections if the growing medium remains too wet. It can also be affected by pests such as spider mites and aphids. To prevent fungal infections, ensure proper drainage and air circulation. To prevent pests, use an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The pygmy sundew is native to Western Australia and can be found in sandy soils in low-nutrient environments such as swamps and bogs.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I grow pygmy sundew outdoors?
A: Pygmy sundew is hardy in zones 9-11 and can be grown outdoors in well-draining soil with bright, indirect sunlight.
Q: How often should I water my pygmy sundew?
A: The pygmy sundew requires a constantly moist growing medium. Water the plant when the soil begins to dry out.
Q: Can I fertilize my pygmy sundew?
A: The pygmy sundew does not require fertilization, as it gains nutrients from the insects it traps and digests.
Q: How often do pygmy sundews produce flowers?
A: Pygmy sundews typically produce flowers in the summer months.
Related Plants
- Drosera Capensis
- Drosera Filiformis
- Drosera Binata
- Drosera Aliciae
References
- “Drosera Pygmaea.” International Carnivorous Plant Society, www.carnivorousplants.org/grow/guides/Drosera/pygmaea.
- “Pygmy Sundew.” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/pygmy-sundew-plant-profile-5073343.
- “Drosera Pygmaea.” World of Flowering Plants, www.worldoffloweringplants.com/drosera-pygmaea-pygmy-sundew.html.
