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Description
Drosera Platypoda, also known as the sundew plant, is a carnivorous plant that is native to Australia. It is a member of the Drosera genus and is known for its unique appearance and ability to catch and digest insects. The plant features long, thin leaves that are covered in sticky, glandular hairs. These hairs produce a substance that is attractive to insects, and once an insect lands on the leaf, the hairs curl around it, trapping it in place. The plant then secretes digestive enzymes that break down the insect’s body, allowing the plant to absorb the nutrients.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Droseraceae |
| Genus | Drosera |
Appearance
The Drosera Platypoda plant has long, thin leaves that can grow up to 10cm in length. The leaves are covered in sticky, glandular hairs that are red in color. The stems are short and covered in hairs as well. The flowers of the plant are pink and grow on long stems that can reach up to 30cm in height. The flowers have five petals and are shaped like a star. The plant’s appearance is unique and eye-catching, making it a popular choice among plant enthusiasts.
Care Guide
Drosera Platypoda is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:Water: The plant should be kept moist at all times. It is recommended to use distilled water or rainwater, as tap water may contain chemicals that can harm the plant.Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization, as it gets its nutrients from the insects it catches.Soil: The plant should be planted in nutrient-poor soil, such as sphagnum moss or a peat-based mix. The soil should be well-draining to prevent waterlogging.Sunlight: The plant should be placed in a bright, sunny location. However, it should be protected from direct sunlight, which can damage the leaves.Hardiness Zones: Drosera Platypoda is best suited for hardiness zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Drosera Platypoda is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues that may arise:Spider Mites: These pests can cause the leaves to turn yellow and dry out. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.Fungus: Fungal infections can cause the leaves to rot. This can be prevented by ensuring that the plant is not overwatered and that the soil has good drainage.
Habitat
Drosera Platypoda is native to Australia and can be found in coastal areas of Western Australia. It grows in sandy or sandy loam soils in areas with high rainfall. The plant is adapted to living in nutrient-poor soil and relies on its ability to catch insects for survival.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Drosera Platypoda plant?A: The plant should be kept moist at all times. It is recommended to water it once a week, using distilled water or rainwater.Q: Can I fertilize my Drosera Platypoda plant?A: No, the plant does not require fertilization, as it gets its nutrients from the insects it catches.Q: What should I do if my plant is infested with spider mites?A: You can control spider mites with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Apply the treatment according to the package instructions.Q: Where can I buy a Drosera Platypoda plant?A: You can purchase Drosera Platypoda plants from specialty nurseries or online plant retailers.
Related Plants
Here are some other carnivorous plants that are related to Drosera Platypoda:
- Drosera Capensis
- Drosera Binata
- Drosera Intermedia
- Drosera Aliciae
References
- “Drosera Platypoda.” The Carnivorous Plant FAQ. Accessed June 15, 2021. http://www.sarracenia.com/faq/faq5390.html.
- “Drosera Platypoda – Sundew.” Australian National Botanic Gardens. Accessed June 15, 2021. https://www.anbg.gov.au/gnp/gnp10/drosera-platypoda.html.
- “Drosera Platypoda.” Wikipedia. Accessed June 15, 2021. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drosera_platypoda.
