Drosophyllaceae

Description

Drosophyllaceae is a family of carnivorous plants that is native to South Africa. It is a small family with only one genus, Drosophyllum, which contains only one species, Drosophyllum lusitanicum. This plant is commonly known as the dewy pine or the Portuguese sundew.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Drosophyllum lusitanicum is a perennial herb that grows up to 60 cm tall. It has long, narrow, and pointed leaves that are covered in glandular hairs. The leaves are green and can grow up to 20 cm long. The plant also produces yellow flowers that are about 2.5 cm in diameter.

Care Guide

Drosophyllum lusitanicum is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:

Water: Drosophyllum lusitanicum is a drought-tolerant plant that prefers to be kept on the drier side. Water it sparingly and only when the soil has completely dried out.

Fertilization: This plant does not require fertilization.

Soil: Drosophyllum lusitanicum prefers well-draining soil that is low in nutrients. Use a mixture of peat moss and sand to create an ideal growing medium.

Sunlight: This plant requires full sun and can tolerate high temperatures.

Hardiness Zones: Drosophyllum lusitanicum is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Drosophyllum lusitanicum is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew, if it is grown in humid conditions. To prevent this, make sure the plant is kept in a well-ventilated area.

Habitat

Drosophyllum lusitanicum is native to the western Mediterranean region, including Portugal and Morocco. It grows in sandy and rocky soils in areas with a Mediterranean climate.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Drosophyllum lusitanicum a carnivorous plant?

A: Yes, Drosophyllum lusitanicum is a carnivorous plant that feeds on insects.

Q: Can Drosophyllum lusitanicum be grown indoors?

A: No, Drosophyllum lusitanicum requires full sun and cannot be grown indoors.

Q: How often should I water my Drosophyllum lusitanicum?

A: Water your Drosophyllum lusitanicum sparingly and only when the soil has completely dried out.

Q: Where can I buy Drosophyllum lusitanicum?

A: Drosophyllum lusitanicum can be purchased from specialty nurseries or online retailers that specialize in carnivorous plants.

Related Plants

• Sarraceniaceae
• Nepenthaceae
• Droseraceae
• Cephalotaceae

References

• Darwin, C. R. (1875). Insectivorous plants. London: John Murray.
• Givnish, T. J. (2015). Carnivory in the bromeliad Brocchinia reducta, with a cost/benefit model for the evolution of carnivorous plants. Ecology and Evolution, 5(20), 4722-4736.
• Juniper, B. E., Robins, R. J., & Joel, D. M. (1989). The carnivorous plants. London: Academic Press.