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Description
Drosera Anglica, commonly known as the English Sundew, is a carnivorous plant that belongs to the Droseraceae family. It is native to Europe and North America and can be found in wet, boggy areas. The plant is small, with a rosette of leaves that grow close to the ground. The leaves are covered in tiny, red tentacle-like structures that secrete a sticky substance to trap insects. Drosera Anglica is a fascinating plant to observe and is a popular addition to many botanical collections.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Droseraceae |
| Genus | Drosera |
Appearance
Drosera Anglica has a small, rosette-like growth habit, with leaves that grow close to the ground. The leaves are circular, with a diameter of around 1-2 centimeters. The leaves are covered in tiny, red tentacle-like structures called trichomes that secrete a sticky substance to trap insects. The plant has small, white flowers that bloom above the leaves in the summer months. Overall, Drosera Anglica is a unique and interesting plant to observe.
Care Guide
Drosera Anglica is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does require specific conditions to thrive. Here are some care tips to keep your English Sundew healthy:
Water: Drosera Anglica requires moist soil at all times. Water the plant regularly, making sure the soil stays damp but not waterlogged.
Fertilization: Drosera Anglica does not require fertilization, as it obtains its nutrients from insects that it traps and digests.
Soil: Drosera Anglica requires nutrient-poor, acidic soil. A mixture of peat moss and sand is ideal for this plant.
Sunlight: Drosera Anglica requires bright, indirect sunlight. Place the plant near a window that receives plenty of natural light, but avoid direct sunlight.
Hardiness Zones: Drosera Anglica is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Drosera Anglica is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be affected by a few common issues. Here are some of the most common pests and diseases to watch out for:
Aphids: These small insects can infest the leaves of the plant and cause damage. Use a gentle insecticide or insecticidal soap to get rid of them.
Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause damage to the leaves of the plant. Use a gentle insecticide or insecticidal soap to get rid of them.
Root Rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged, and avoid letting the plant sit in standing water.
Habitat
Drosera Anglica is native to Europe and North America and can be found in wet, boggy areas. The plant prefers nutrient-poor, acidic soil and requires plenty of moisture to thrive. It can often be found growing alongside other carnivorous plants in its native habitat.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the purpose of the sticky substance on Drosera Anglica’s leaves?
A: The sticky substance on Drosera Anglica’s leaves is used to trap insects. Once an insect lands on the leaf, the tentacles fold inward, bringing the insect closer to the center of the leaf where it is digested.
Q: Can Drosera Anglica be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Drosera Anglica can be grown indoors as long as it receives plenty of bright, indirect sunlight and is kept in moist soil.
Q: What is the best way to propagate Drosera Anglica?
A: Drosera Anglica can be propagated by dividing the plant’s rosette and replanting the divisions in fresh soil.
Q: How long does Drosera Anglica live?
A: Drosera Anglica can live for several years if it is well-cared for and kept in the proper conditions.
Related Plants
Here are some other carnivorous plants that are related to Drosera Anglica:
- Drosera capensis
- Drosera spatulata
- Drosera binata
- Sarracenia purpurea
- Nepenthes spp.
References
- “Drosera anglica.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed November 3, 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279435&isprofile=1&basic=Drosera.
- “Drosera anglica.” Plant Database. Accessed November 3, 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=DRAN5.
- Stearn, William T. Botanical Latin. 4th ed. Portland, OR: Timber Press, 1992.
