Contents
Description
Drosera Ordensis, commonly known as the Sundew Plant, is a carnivorous plant that is native to the Northern Territory of Australia. It belongs to the Droseraceae family, which includes over 170 species of carnivorous plants. Sundew plants are known for their sticky, glandular hairs on their leaves that trap and digest insects and other small creatures. The plant is a perennial herb that can grow up to 30 cm in height and can produce white or pink flowers in the summer months. The plant is relatively easy to grow and is a popular choice for carnivorous plant enthusiasts.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Droseraceae |
| Genus | Drosera |
Appearance
The Sundew Plant has long, narrow leaves that are covered in sticky, glandular hairs. The leaves can range in color from green to red, depending on the amount of sunlight they receive. The plant produces small, white or pink flowers in the summer months that are held on a thin stem above the leaves. The flowers are self-fertile and can produce viable seeds. Sundew plants are relatively small, growing up to 30 cm in height and 15 cm in width. They are a popular choice for terrariums and other indoor growing environments due to their compact size and attractive appearance.
Care Guide
Sundew plants are relatively easy to grow, but they do have specific care needs that must be met for them to thrive. Here are some basic care guidelines for growing a healthy Sundew Plant:
- Water: Sundew plants require distilled or rainwater, as tap water can contain minerals that are harmful to the plant. The soil should be kept moist at all times, but not water-logged.
- Fertilization: Sundew plants do not require fertilization, as they obtain their nutrients from the insects they trap and digest.
- Soil: Sundew plants require a well-draining soil that is low in nutrients. A mixture of peat moss and perlite is a good choice for planting Sundew.
- Sunlight: Sundew plants require bright, indirect sunlight for optimal growth. Avoid placing the plant in direct sunlight, as this can burn the leaves.
- Hardiness Zones: Sundew plants are hardy in zones 9-11, which includes most of the southern United States. They can be grown as indoor plants in colder climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sundew plants are relatively pest and disease-resistant, but they can be susceptible to certain issues if their care needs are not met. Here are some common pests and diseases to watch out for:
- Fungus Gnats: These tiny black flies can infest the soil of Sundew plants and cause damage to the roots. To prevent an infestation, keep the soil moist but not water-logged and avoid over-fertilizing the plant.
- Mites: Spider mites can infest Sundew plants and cause damage to the leaves. To prevent an infestation, keep the plant well-hydrated and avoid over-fertilization.
- Crown Rot: This fungal disease can occur if the soil of the Sundew plant is kept too wet. To prevent crown rot, ensure that the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering the plant.
Habitat
The Sundew Plant is native to the Northern Territory of Australia, where it grows in wet, boggy areas. It can also be found in other parts of Australia, including Western Australia and Queensland. The plant prefers moist, acidic soil and bright, indirect sunlight. It is often found growing alongside other carnivorous plants, such as the Venus Flytrap and the Pitcher Plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Sundew plants be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Sundew plants can be grown indoors as long as they receive bright, indirect sunlight and their care needs are met.
Q: How often should I water my Sundew plant?
A: Sundew plants should be kept moist at all times, but not water-logged. Water the plant when the soil feels dry to the touch.
Q: Can Sundew plants be grown in terrariums?
A: Yes, Sundew plants are a popular choice for terrariums and other indoor growing environments due to their compact size and attractive appearance.
Q: Do Sundew plants require fertilization?
A: No, Sundew plants obtain their nutrients from the insects they trap and digest and do not require fertilization.
Related Plants
- Drosera Capensis
- Drosera Filiformis
- Drosera Rotundifolia
- Drosera Binata
References
- “Drosera Ordensis.” International Carnivorous Plant Society, www.carnivorousplants.org/cp/Droseraceae/ordensis.
- “Drosera Ordensis.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 19 Aug. 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drosera_ordensis.
- “Sundew Plant: How to Care for Drosera.” Epic Gardening, 25 Aug. 2021, epicgardening.com/sundew-plant/.
