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Description
Drosera Gigantea, also known as the Giant Sundew, is a carnivorous plant that belongs to the Droseraceae family. It is native to the south-west coast of Australia and is known for its sticky, glandular leaves that trap and digest insects. The plant is popular among horticulturists and collectors due to its unique appearance and carnivorous nature.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Droseraceae |
| Genus | Drosera |
Appearance
The Drosera Gigantea has long, slender leaves that can grow up to 30cm in length. The leaves are covered in red, glandular hairs that secrete a sticky substance to trap insects. The plant produces a tall stem that can grow up to 70cm in height and bears clusters of white or pink flowers. The flowers bloom from late spring to early summer and are followed by the formation of small, brown seed pods.
Care Guide
Water: The Drosera Gigantea prefers to be kept moist at all times. Water the plant regularly to keep the soil damp but not waterlogged.
Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization as it obtains its nutrients from the insects it captures.
Soil: The plant prefers a well-draining soil that is low in nutrients. A mixture of peat moss and perlite is ideal for growing the Drosera Gigantea.
Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can burn the leaves.
Hardiness Zones: The Drosera Gigantea is hardy in USDA zones 8-11, and can be grown indoors in colder climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Drosera Gigantea is susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and root rot. To prevent these diseases, ensure that the plant is grown in well-draining soil and is not overwatered. The plant may also attract common indoor pests such as spider mites and aphids. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The Drosera Gigantea is native to the south-west coast of Australia, where it grows in sandy soils in wet areas such as swamps and bogs. The plant thrives in humid conditions and requires a constant source of water to survive.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Drosera Gigantea be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors in a bright, humid location such as a bathroom or greenhouse.
Q: Does the Drosera Gigantea require a dormancy period?
A: Yes, the plant requires a dormancy period in the winter months when it should be kept in a cool, dry location.
Q: How often should the Drosera Gigantea be fed?
A: The plant does not require regular feeding as it obtains its nutrients from the insects it captures. However, if grown in a low-nutrient soil, the plant may benefit from occasional feeding with a diluted fertilizer.
Q: Can the Drosera Gigantea be propagated from seed?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated from seed. Sow the seeds in a mixture of peat moss and perlite and keep the soil moist at all times. The seeds should germinate in 2-4 weeks.
Related Plants
- Drosera Capensis
- Drosera Binata
- Drosera Aliciae
- Drosera Intermedia
References
- “Drosera Gigantea.” International Carnivorous Plant Society. https://www.carnivorousplants.org/grow/guides/Drosera_gigantea
- “Drosera Gigantea.” Australian National Botanic Gardens. https://www.anbg.gov.au/gnp/interns-2007/drosera-gigantea.html
- “Drosera Gigantea.” Plantzafrica. http://pza.sanbi.org/drosera-gigantea
