Drosera rotundifolia
General
Drosera rotundifolia, commonly known as the round-leaved sundew, is one of the most charming and widespread carnivorous plants in the Northern Hemisphere. Famous for its jewel-like dew drops on spoon-shaped leaves, this small herb has captivated botanists and hobbyists alike for centuries. Its intriguing insect-trapping mechanism and delicate beauty make it a fascinating addition to any bog garden or carnivorous plant collection.
Physical Characteristics
This sundew is relatively petite, sporting a basal rosette of round, flat leaves. Each leaf is covered in glandular hairs tipped with glistening mucilage, which appears like morning dew. These droplets are sticky and play a crucial role in catching unsuspecting prey. The leaves typically range from 1–2 cm (0.4–0.8 inches) in diameter, while the sprawling plant itself seldom exceeds 10 cm (4 inches) in width. During late spring to summer, it sends up slender, leafless stalks topped with small, white to pale pink flowers that are self-fertile and produce copious seeds.
Lifestyle
This species is an insectivorous perennial. The plant lures, traps, and digests insects using its mucilage-laden leaves. When an insect lands on the sticky surface, the tentacles curl towards the prey, further ensnaring it and increasing contact with digestive enzymes. This adaptation allows it to thrive in nutrient-poor, acidic soils where few other plants could survive. The nutrients obtained supplement the meager minerals available from the boggy substrate.
Habitat and Protection
Round-leaved sundew is native to cool temperate regions across Europe, Asia, and North America. It typically grows in sphagnum bogs, marshes, peatlands, and wet heaths—places saturated with acidic water and poor in nitrogen. Despite its vast range, it is vulnerable to habitat destruction, peat extraction, and wetland drainage. In some regions, this plant is legally protected; never collect it from the wild.
Cultivation
Cultivating this dew-loving carnivore can be extremely rewarding. It is especially suitable for outdoor bog gardens in cooler climates, but you can also keep it in pots, terrariums, or cold greenhouses. Use only appropriate soil mixes, keep the roots constantly moist with pure water, and respect its need for winter dormancy. With patience and the right care, you can enjoy a healthy sundew graced with dew-laden leaves year after year.
Special Features
The most eye-catching feature is the glistening mucilage, which sparkles in sunlight and can attract both insects and human admirers. This sticky "dew" is produced by specialized glands and is not just for show—it enables the plant to obtain nutrients essential for growth. Another highlight is its natural resilience, allowing it to return each spring after a dormant winter period. Through seed, it can also readily self-propagate, making it quite amenable to cultivation.
Care
Light
Bright, indirect sunlight is best, although a few hours of direct morning sun can enhance red coloration and dew production. Outdoors, filtered sun or a spot receiving dappled sunlight is ideal. Indoors, place near a sunny windowsill.
Temperature
Suits temperatures between 5°C (41°F) and 25°C (77°F). Can tolerate brief periods of light frost, especially when dormant, but thrives in cool-to-mild conditions.
Water
Keep soil constantly moist using rainwater or demineralized water. A tray system is recommended, with the pot sitting in 1–2 cm (about ½–1 inch) of water during the growing season. Never let it dry out.
Soil
Plant in a nutrient-poor, acidic substrate such as a mix of 1 part sphagnum peat moss to 1 part perlite or silica sand. Avoid any added fertilizers or regular garden soil.
Nutrition
Does not require fertilizer. Captures all necessary nutrients from insects. If grown indoors where insects are scarce, occasional feeding of very small insects may help.
Humidity
Prefers moderate to high humidity (50–80%), but is more tolerant of lower humidity than many other carnivorous plants. Good air circulation is beneficial.
Dormancy
Essential for long-term health. In autumn, reduce watering and allow the substrate to become damp rather than saturated, and keep the plant cool (0–7°C or 32–45°F). Most leaves will die back, forming a tight hibernaculum. Resume normal care as new growth emerges in spring.
Common Problems
Leaves lose dew or become limp
Cause: Insufficient light, low humidity, or poor water quality.
Solution: Increase light, use rainwater, and ensure humidity remains moderate.
Leaf tips turn brown
Cause: Exposure to fertilizers or mineral-rich water.
Solution: Use only pure, mineral-free water and never fertilize.
Failure to enter dormancy in winter
Cause: Kept too warm or watered too heavily in winter months.
Solution: Provide a cool winter rest and reduce watering after fall.
Leaves grow long and spindly
Cause: Not enough light.
Solution: Move to a brighter spot, ensuring some direct sun exposure.
Plant stops growing
Cause: Incorrect soil or persistent dryness.
Solution: Repot into suitable acidic medium and keep the substrate moist at all times.