How to Grow Spatulate Sundew
iNaturalist
Spatulate Sundew
Drosera spatulata
flowerDrosera spatulata is a small carnivorous plant native to Australia and Southeast Asia, forming a compact rosette of spoon-shaped leaves covered with glistening, sticky tentacles that trap insects. It produces delicate pink or white flowers on thin stems and is popular among carnivorous plant enthusiasts for its compact size and ease of cultivation. The plant's striking appearance and insect-catching ability make it both an educational and decorative houseplant.
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Example Spatulate Sundew timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Spatulate Sundew
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Spatulate Sundew blooms
Around Jul 16≈ 90 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Spatulate Sundew dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Zones 9b-11; typically grown indoors as a houseplant in cooler climates
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Get my Spatulate Sundew timeline →Growth Stages
Seed Germination
2-4 weeksTiny seedlings emerge as miniature rosettes with initial leaves very small; first tentacles begin to develop
Keep humidity high (60-80%); maintain constant moisture; provide bright indirect light; no fertilizer needed
Rosette Development
8-12 weeksPlant forms characteristic spoon-shaped leaves in tight rosette formation; sticky tentacles cover leaf surfaces and become more prominent
Maintain high humidity; ensure distilled water only; provide bright light; allow plant to catch small insects naturally for nutrition
Pre-flowering
3-4 weeksMature rosette grows to 1-2 inches diameter with fully developed tentacles; flower stalk begins to emerge from center
Continue consistent watering and lighting; reduce humidity slightly if flowering is delayed; maintain cool temperatures (60-70°F preferred)
Flowering
3-4 weeksThin, wiry stem extends 3-6 inches high bearing small delicate pink, white, or pale purple flowers arranged in a raceme
Pollinate flowers with small paintbrush for seed production if desired; continue regular care; flowers last several weeks
Dormancy/Hibernation
6-8 weeks (seasonal, optional)Plant may produce winter buds (hibernacula) in cool months or simply slow growth; rosette persists year-round in warm conditions
Reduce watering slightly if hibernating; maintain cool dormant period (50-60°F) for 6-8 weeks to encourage vigorous spring growth; resume normal care after dormancy
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Isolate affected plant; spray with distilled water and mild insecticidal soap; dab with alcohol on cotton swab; avoid systemic pesticides which harm the plant
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Increase humidity to 70%+; mist with distilled water daily; isolate plant; use predatory mites if severe
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Allow top layer of soil to dry slightly between waterings; use yellow sticky traps; maintain good air circulation; avoid overwatering
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Remove manually with tweezers or soft brush; isolate plant; treat with neem oil or horticultural oil if infestation is severe
Uses
Natural Insect Trap
HouseholdDrosera spatulata captures and digests small flying insects like gnats, flies, and mosquitoes, serving as a natural biological pest control for indoor spaces without chemical pesticides. [source]
Educational Plant & Science Specimen
CraftCommonly used in classrooms and by hobbyists to teach plant diversity, adaptation, and carnivory. Its compact size and relatively easy care make it ideal for STEM education and botanical curiosity. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeWhen flowering, the delicate blooms attract small flying insects and pollinators, supporting local insect populations while the plant's insect-trapping leaves provide ecological balance. [source]
Decorative Houseplant
HouseholdWith its striking red or green rosettes covered in glistening tentacles and delicate pink flowers, Drosera spatulata serves as an eye-catching, conversation-starting ornamental houseplant for windowsills and terrariums. [source]
Traditional Ethnobotanical Use
MedicinalIn some Asian traditional medicine systems, certain Drosera species have been used to support respiratory health; however, Drosera spatulata is rarely used medicinally and research is limited. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
This plant is not harvested for food or material. Seeds can be collected from dried seed pods after flowering for propagation; sow fresh seeds on moist sphagnum moss surface. Propagate vegetative rosettes by separating offshoots from mature plants and planting in standard carnivorous plant substrate.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Drosera spatulata is one of the fastest-growing sundews and can be propagated from leaf fragments—a single leaf can regenerate an entire new plant, making it popular for multiplying collections.
- 🌱 The sticky tentacles covering the leaves produce a sweet-smelling mucilage that lures insects; each tentacle is tipped with a sticky droplet that glimmers in light, appearing jewel-like and giving sundews their common name.
- 🌱 Unlike most carnivorous plants that require dormancy, Drosera spatulata is evergreen and can grow year-round indoors under consistent conditions, though a cool dormancy period encourages more vigorous growth.
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