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Description
Mastersiella Spathulata, also known as the Spoonleaf Sundew, is a carnivorous plant native to Australia. It is part of the Droseraceae family and is known for its unique appearance and ability to capture insects.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Droseraceae |
| Genus | Mastersiella |
Appearance
The Spoonleaf Sundew has small, spoon-shaped leaves that are arranged in a rosette. The leaves are covered in short, reddish hairs that form a sticky substance used to trap insects. The plant produces small, white flowers on long stems that grow above the leaves.
Care Guide
Water: The Spoonleaf Sundew requires moist soil, so it is important to keep the soil damp at all times. Use distilled water or rainwater, as tap water can contain minerals that are harmful to the plant.
Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization, as it obtains its nutrients from the insects it captures.
Soil: The Spoonleaf Sundew requires well-draining soil that is low in nutrients. A mixture of peat moss and perlite is ideal.
Sunlight: The plant requires full sun to thrive, so it should be placed in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones: The Spoonleaf Sundew is hardy in zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Spoonleaf Sundew is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is kept too wet. It is also important to avoid touching the leaves, as this can damage the sticky hairs and reduce the plant’s ability to capture insects.
Habitat
The Spoonleaf Sundew is native to Australia and can be found growing in wetlands, bogs, and other areas with moist soil. It is often found growing alongside other carnivorous plants, such as the Venus Flytrap and Pitcher Plant.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Spoonleaf Sundew?
A: The plant requires moist soil, so it is important to keep the soil damp at all times. Watering once or twice a week should be sufficient.
Q: Can I feed my Spoonleaf Sundew insects?
A: Yes, the plant obtains its nutrients from the insects it captures. You can feed it small insects such as fruit flies or gnats.
Q: Can the Spoonleaf Sundew be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors as long as it receives sufficient sunlight and the soil is kept moist.
Q: How do I propagate my Spoonleaf Sundew?
A: The plant can be propagated by dividing the rosette and replanting the individual leaves in a new container.
Related Plants
- Venus Flytrap
- Pitcher Plant
- Sundew
References
- “Mastersiella Spathulata.” International Carnivorous Plant Society. https://www.carnivorousplants.org/grow/guides/Mastersiella-spathulata
- “Spoonleaf Sundew.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=283751&isprofile=0&basic=spoonleaf%20sundew
- “Growing Carnivorous Plants.” University of Illinois Extension. https://extension.illinois.edu/blogs/good-growing/2018-12-31-growing-carnivorous-plants
