Threadleaf Sundew Drosera filiformis

Threadleaf sundew is a carnivorous herbaceous perennial native to the Atlantic Seaboard, from Connecticut to Florida. It is a member of the sundew family (Droseraceae). The species epithet is a Latin compound meaning “having a threadlike form” and refers to the distinctive shape of the leaf. Our other native sundews have spoon-shaped leaves.

Plant in full sun with a planting mix of whole fiber sphagnum moss or a mix of equal parts peat moss and coarse vermiculite or sharp sand. The mix should be low in nutrients, and no fertilizer is necessary. The plant will get all the nutrients from digested prey. The plants require constant moisture and a winter dormancy for longevity. Always use distilled water or rainwater to irrigate these plants. Threadleaf sundew is easy to cultivate and will form clumps that can be divided while dormant.

It has lavender-rose flowers on a leafless stalk rising from erect, thread-like, sticky, basal leaves that unroll in spirals, like fern fiddleheads. Insects trapped in the sticky hairs are digested by plant enzymes, and the nutrients are absorbed by the plant. The populations of this species in Florida have been recognized as the Florida threadleaf sundew (Drosera filiformis var. floridana), which is distinguished by having red or orange leaves.

Threadleaf sundew can be grown outside in bog gardens, troughs or containers. Grow it in a native garden, rain garden or children’s garden. This species can also be grown indoors. Place the plant in a small pot and set the pot in a tray of distilled or rainwater. 

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

More information on Drosera.