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Description
The Drosera Spatulata, commonly known as the spoon-leaved sundew, is a carnivorous plant that belongs to the Droseraceae family. This fascinating plant is native to Australia and New Zealand and is known for its spoon-shaped leaves that are covered in tiny tentacle-like structures called “sundew glands” that secrete a sticky substance that attracts and traps insects. The Drosera Spatulata is a popular plant among collectors and enthusiasts due to its unique appearance and carnivorous nature.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Droseraceae |
| Genus | Drosera |
Appearance
The Drosera Spatulata is a small plant that typically grows to be 2-4 inches tall. It has a rosette of spoon-shaped leaves that are green with red tentacle-like structures on the edges. The leaves are covered in tiny sundew glands that secrete a sticky substance to trap insects. The Drosera Spatulata produces small white or pink flowers that bloom in the spring and summer.
Care Guide
The Drosera Spatulata requires specific care to thrive:
- Water: The plant should be kept constantly moist, but not submerged in water. It is best to use distilled or rainwater, as tap water can contain minerals that can harm the plant.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization, as it obtains its nutrients from the insects it traps.
- Soil: The plant should be planted in a mixture of peat moss and sand in a container with drainage holes.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight, but can also tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The Drosera Spatulata is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Drosera Spatulata is generally healthy and free of pests and diseases when grown in appropriate conditions. However, some common issues include:
- Fungal diseases: These can be caused by overwatering or poor air circulation. Symptoms include yellowing leaves and rotting roots.
- Aphids: These small insects can be found on the leaves and can be removed by spraying the plant with a solution of water and dish soap.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing leaves and webbing on the plant. They can be removed by spraying the plant with a solution of water and neem oil.
Habitat
The Drosera Spatulata is native to Australia and New Zealand and can be found growing in damp, marshy areas. It prefers acidic soils and can be found growing in peat bogs and swamps.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Drosera Spatulata be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors as long as it receives adequate light and is kept moist.
Q: Do I need to feed the Drosera Spatulata insects?
A: No, the plant will obtain its nutrients from the insects it traps.
Q: How long do the flowers of the Drosera Spatulata last?
A: The flowers typically last for 1-2 weeks.
Q: How often should I repot my Drosera Spatulata?
A: The plant should be repotted every 1-2 years to refresh the soil and remove any dead roots.
Related Plants
- Drosera Capensis
- Drosera Binata
- Drosera Adelae
- Drosera Filiformis
References
- “Drosera Spatulata.” The Carnivorous Plant FAQ. Accessed October 25, 2021. https://www.sarracenia.com/faq/faq5320.html.
- “Drosera Spatulata.” Plant Care Today. Accessed October 25, 2021. https://plantcaretoday.com/drosera-spatulata.html.
- “Spoon-Leaved Sundew (Drosera Spatulata).” World of Flowering Plants. Accessed October 25, 2021. https://worldoffloweringplants.com/spoon-leaved-sundew-drosera-spatulata/.
