Drosophyllum Lusitanicum

Description

Drosophyllum Lusitanicum, also known as the Portuguese Sundew, is a carnivorous plant species that belongs to the Droseraceae family. It is native to the southwestern part of the Iberian Peninsula, particularly in Portugal and Spain. This plant is named after its Greek origin, which means “dew-loving flycatcher”.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Drosophyllum Lusitanicum has a unique appearance compared to other carnivorous plants. It grows up to a height of 30-50 cm and has a rosette of leaves that are long, narrow, and pointed. The leaves are covered with glandular hairs that produce a sticky substance to trap insects. The plant produces yellow flowers in the summer, which are around 2.5 cm in diameter.

Care Guide

Here are some tips on how to care for Drosophyllum Lusitanicum:

• Water: This plant requires well-drained soil and does not tolerate waterlogging. Water it regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering.
• Fertilization: Drosophyllum Lusitanicum does not require fertilization.
• Soil: It requires acidic, nutrient-poor soil with a pH of 4.5-5.5. Use a mix of peat moss, sand, and perlite for the best results.
• Sunlight: This plant requires full sun exposure for at least six hours a day.
• Hardiness Zones: Drosophyllum Lusitanicum is hardy in zones 8-10.

Common Pests & Diseases

Drosophyllum Lusitanicum is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it is susceptible to root rot if overwatered or grown in poorly drained soil. It is also susceptible to spider mites and aphids, which can be controlled using insecticidal soap.

Habitat

Drosophyllum Lusitanicum is native to the southwestern part of the Iberian Peninsula, particularly in Portugal and Spain. It grows in acidic, nutrient-poor soil in open, sunny areas such as cliffs, rock outcrops, and dunes.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Drosophyllum Lusitanicum easy to grow?A: It can be challenging to grow because it requires specific soil and growing conditions. However, with proper care, it can be grown successfully.Q: Can Drosophyllum Lusitanicum be grown indoors?A: It is not recommended to grow Drosophyllum Lusitanicum indoors because it requires full sun exposure.Q: Can Drosophyllum Lusitanicum be propagated by division?A: It is not recommended to propagate Drosophyllum Lusitanicum by division because it has a deep taproot that can be damaged during the process.Q: How often should I water Drosophyllum Lusitanicum?A: Water it regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings.

Related Plants

• Drosera
• Sarracenia
• Nepenthes
• Dionaea

References

• “Drosophyllum lusitanicum.” The Plant List, www.theplantlist.org/tpl1.1/record/kew-2771711.
• “Drosophyllum Lusitanicum.” International Carnivorous Plant Society, www.carnivorousplants.org/grow/guides/Drosophyllum.
• “Drosophyllum Lusitanicum.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 16 Nov. 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drosophyllum_lusitanicum.