Drosera

The sundews are one of the largest groups of carnivorous plants, with at least 250 species worldwide. They are members of the sundew family (Droseraceae). Their distribution is cosmopolitan, and the Southeastern USA has eight native taxa. The genus name is derived from the Greek word for “dewy” and refers to the glistening droplets of fluid borne on the glandular hairs of the leaves. 

Cultivation is fairly easy for most species. Most species grow readily in a nutrient-poor, peat/sand mix, kept moist year-round, and in full sun in the ground or containers. Do not apply fertilizers and always use rainwater or distilled water for irrigation. Be sure to research which species is best for your area. Some species from South Africa and Australia require summer dormancy, which may be hard to provide in North Carolina, outside of a greenhouse.

Sundews are easily identifiable by their leaves, which may be spoon-shaped, strap-shaped or linear, and grow in a basal rosette. They can be green, yellow-green to red. Each leaf is covered with glandular hairs that exude a sticky, dew-like substance that persists throughout the day. This fluid attracts, traps and digests insects that land on the leaf. Flowers vary in color but are usually white to pink, and they open in the mornings on sunny days. These plants are found in bogs, fens, and marshes. They are listed as endangered or threatened in several states. Always buy nursery-raised plants; never buy plants extracted from the wild.

Sundews make marvelous additions to children’s gardens, native gardens, carnivorous plant gardens, rain and bog gardens. They grow well in containers or troughs. As species are small, grow them where they can be approached and appreciated up close. They are attractive curiosities that attract attention wherever they grow. 

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  No significant problems.