Contents
Description
Droseraceae is a family of carnivorous plants commonly known as sundews, which is native to every continent except Antarctica. They are fascinating plants because they have evolved to lure, trap, and digest insects, which provide them with essential nutrients they cannot get from the soil. Sundews are characterized by their sticky, glandular hairs on the leaves that produce a sweet, sticky substance that traps insects. Once trapped, the hairs curl inward, suffocating and digesting the prey.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Droseraceae |
| Genus | Drosera |
Appearance
Sundews come in a variety of sizes, from small rosettes to large plants that can reach up to a meter in height. The leaves are typically covered in a dense layer of glandular hairs that produce a sticky substance that traps insects. The flowers are usually pink or white and grow on a tall stalk above the leaves.
Care Guide
Sundews require specific care to thrive. Here are some tips to keep them healthy:- Water: Sundews need to be kept constantly moist, so water them regularly with distilled water or rainwater. Do not use tap water, as the minerals can harm the plant.- Fertilization: Sundews get their nutrients from insects, so they do not require fertilizer. However, you can feed them live insects, such as fruit flies or gnats, to supplement their diet.- Soil: Sundews prefer acidic, nutrient-poor soil. Use a mix of peat moss and perlite or sand.- Sunlight: Sundews need bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can burn the leaves.- Hardiness Zones: Sundews are typically hardy in zones 8-11, but some species can survive in colder climates if kept indoors.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sundews are generally hardy plants, but they can be susceptible to a few pests and diseases:- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to wilt and die. Use an insecticidal soap to get rid of them.- Mites: These tiny arachnids can cause brown spots on the leaves and make them look unhealthy. Use a miticide to control them.- Root rot: If the soil is too wet, the roots can rot, causing the plant to die. Make sure the soil is well-draining and do not overwater.- Fungal infections: Sundews can be susceptible to fungal infections, especially in humid conditions. Use a fungicide to treat the infection.
Habitat
Sundews are found in a variety of habitats, including bogs, fens, and wetlands. They require moist, nutrient-poor soil to thrive.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the most common species of sundew?
A: The most common species of sundew is Drosera capensis, which is native to South Africa.
Q: How long do sundews live?
A: Sundews can live for several years if they are well-cared for.
Q: Are sundews endangered?
A: Some species of sundews are endangered due to habitat loss and over-collection. It is important to buy plants from reputable sources and not collect them from the wild.
Q: Can sundews be grown indoors?
A: Yes, sundews can be grown indoors as long as they receive bright, indirect sunlight and are kept moist.
Related Plants
– Venus flytrap (Dionaea muscipula)- Pitcher plant (Sarracenia spp.)- Butterwort (Pinguicula spp.)- Bladderwort (Utricularia spp.)
References
– “Droseraceae.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 21 July 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Droseraceae.- Rice, Barry A. “Droseraceae.” Encyclopædia Britannica, Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., 30 May 2019, www.britannica.com/plant/Droseraceae.
