Drosera rotundifolia
General
Drosera rotundifolia, also known as the round-leaved sundew, is a captivating little carnivorous plant renowned for its delicate appearance and sparkling, dew-covered leaves. Native to northern temperate regions, this plant masterfully combines botanical allure with insect-hunting prowess.
Physical Characteristics
This perennial species grows compact rosettes of bright green, rounded leaves. Each leaf is fringed with vibrant red glandular hairs known as tentacles. These stalked glands secrete a sticky, glistening mucilage, giving the plant its signature “dewy” look. During flowering season, slender stalks rise above the basal rosette, producing small, five-petaled white or pale pink flowers.
Lifestyle
The round-leaved sundew supplements its nutrient needs by trapping and digesting small insects. The sticky mucilage on its tentacles ensnares prey, which is then digested with enzymes. This adaptation is essential in its native habitats, where nutrient-poor soils make carnivory a valuable survival strategy.
Habitat and Protection
You’ll find this species in acidic bogs, marshes, and wet heathlands throughout Europe, Asia, and North America. It thrives in open, sunny locations with waterlogged, nutrient-poor, acidic peat. Protection in the wild is important—habitat destruction from drainage or peat extraction can threaten native populations, so conservation efforts focus on preserving bog environments.
Cultivation
Gardeners and plant enthusiasts treasure round-leaved sundew for its beauty and insect-catching ability. In cultivation, it requires conditions that mimic its native bog: soft water, acid soil, and bright light. With the right care, it adapts well to terrariums, greenhouses, or even outdoor bog gardens in suitable climates.
Special Features
This species stands out for its jewel-like leaves and its fascinating method of insect capture. Its leaves can slowly curl around trapped prey, maximizing digestion. Additionally, its ability to enter a winter dormancy makes it well-suited to temperate climates and distinguishes it from many tropical sundews.
Care
Light
Bright, direct sunlight is ideal—at least 4-6 hours a day. Inadequate light leads to sparse growth and loss of red coloration on the tentacles.
Temperature
Tolerates cool to mild conditions. During the growing season, temperatures from 15–25°C (59–77°F) are perfect. In winter dormancy, temperatures can drop just above freezing without harm.
Water
Keep the soil constantly moist by standing the pot in a tray of rainwater or distilled water. Never allow the soil to dry out. Avoid tap water, which contains minerals that can be harmful.
Soil
A 1:1 mix of sphagnum peat moss and silica sand or perlite creates the acidic, low-nutrient medium it loves. Avoid fertilizers and rich soils.
Nutrition
Let the plant catch its own prey—supplemental feeding is rarely necessary, and chemical fertilizers should be strictly avoided. Occasional tiny insects (like small gnats) may be offered if grown indoors.
Humidity
Appreciates high humidity, especially in dry indoor settings. Mist the plant occasionally or use a humidity tray for best results.
Dormancy
In autumn, reduce watering and allow cooler temperatures to signal dormancy. Leaves will die back and the plant will rest until spring. Maintain slight soil moisture during this period, and resume normal care as growth restarts.
Common Problems
Leaves lose red coloration, become pale
Cause: Insufficient light.
Solution: Move to a brighter location, ideally with direct sunshine for several hours daily.
Leaf tips brown, or plant wilts
Cause: Hard water or mineral buildup in soil.
Solution: Switch to distilled or rainwater and consider repotting into fresh peat/sand mix.
No dew forms on tentacles
Cause: Humidity is too low or plant is stressed.
Solution: Increase humidity around the plant and check roots for rot or pests.
Growth stops or plant fails to return in spring
Cause: Dormancy requirements not met or excessive dryness during winter.
Solution: Ensure cool temperatures and slightly moist soil during winter dormancy; never allow soil to dry completely.