Contents
Description
Drosera Intermedia, commonly known as the Sundew Plant, is a carnivorous plant known for its unique way of trapping insects. This plant is native to Europe, Asia, and North America, where it grows in wetlands and bogs. The Sundew Plant is a small herbaceous perennial, growing up to 4-10 inches in height. It has small white or pink flowers that bloom in summer. The leaves of the Sundew Plant are the most distinctive feature, covered in tiny red tentacle-like structures that secrete a sticky mucilage to capture prey.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Droseraceae |
| Genus | Drosera |
Appearance
The Sundew Plant has small, round leaves that are covered in red tentacle-like structures, called tentacles. These tentacles are covered in sticky mucilage that traps insects. The leaves are arranged in a rosette pattern, growing up to 2-3 inches in diameter. The Sundew Plant produces small white or pink flowers that bloom in summer, usually from June to August, and are held on a thin stalk above the leaves. The flowers are approximately 0.5 inches in diameter and have five petals.
Care Guide
Taking care of the Sundew Plant can be tricky as it requires specific growing conditions to thrive. Here are some tips to keep your Sundew Plant healthy:Water: The Sundew Plant requires a constant supply of water, but it should not be sitting in standing water. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.Fertilization: The Sundew Plant does not require fertilization as it gets its nutrients from the insects it captures.Soil: The Sundew Plant requires a soil mix that is low in nutrients and high in organic matter. A mix of peat moss and perlite or sand is recommended.Sunlight: The Sundew Plant requires partial to full sunlight, depending on the climate. In warmer climates, it should be grown in partial shade, while in cooler climates, it can be grown in full sun.Hardiness Zones: The Sundew Plant is hardy in USDA Zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Sundew Plant 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 prevent fungal diseases by ensuring good air circulation around the plant. Common pests that can affect the Sundew Plant include aphids and spider mites. These can be controlled by using insecticidal soap or by physically removing them from the plant.
Habitat
The Sundew Plant is found in wetlands and bogs in Europe, Asia, and North America. It requires a constantly moist environment to thrive and can be found in acidic soils with low nutrient content. The Sundew Plant is often found growing alongside other carnivorous plants, such as the Venus Flytrap and Pitcher Plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Sundew Plant be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the Sundew Plant can be grown indoors, but it requires high humidity levels and bright light to thrive.Q: Does the Sundew Plant require a specific type of water?
A: The Sundew Plant requires distilled or rainwater as tap water can contain minerals that can harm the plant.Q: How often should I feed my Sundew Plant?
A: The Sundew Plant does not require feeding as it gets its nutrients from the insects it captures.Q: Can I propagate my Sundew Plant?
A: Yes, the Sundew Plant can be propagated by leaf cuttings. Simply cut a leaf from the plant and place it in a tray of damp sphagnum moss. Roots and new plants will begin to grow from the cuttings.
Related Plants
- Drosera Capillaris
- Drosera Rotundifolia
- Drosera Filiformis
- Drosera Binata
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/sundew-plant/growing-sundew-plants.htm
- https://www.thespruce.com/grow-care-sundew-plants-1902774
- https://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/perennial/sundew-plant/
