How to Grow King Sundew
iNaturalist
King Sundew
Drosera regia
flowerKing Sundew is a remarkable carnivorous plant native to South Africa, known for its large rosette of reddish tentacle-covered leaves that trap and digest insects. It produces delicate pink or white flowers on tall inflorescences and can grow significantly larger than most other sundew species. This is one of the most prized sundews for collectors due to its impressive size and striking appearance.
When should you plant King Sundew in your zone?
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Example King Sundew timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant King 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 King Sundew blooms
Around Oct 14≈ 180 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact King Sundew dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 10-11; must be grown indoors or in controlled conditions in cooler climates
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Get my King Sundew timeline →Growth Stages
Germination
3-4 weeksTiny seedlings emerging from soil with initial leaf-like structures
Maintain high humidity and consistent moisture; provide bottom heat (65-75°F) and bright light; germination can take 3-4 weeks
Juvenile Rosette
6-12 monthsYoung plant developing characteristic rosette form with small tentacle-covered leaves
Increase light intensity gradually; maintain high humidity; ensure water quality is excellent; avoid fertilizer entirely
Mature Growth
12-24+ monthsPlant reaching full rosette size with large, prominent reddish leaves covered in glandular tentacles
Provide stable temperatures (60-75°F); maintain bright light; allow winter dormancy period with cooler temperatures; gradually reduce water in winter
Flowering
4-8 weeksTall inflorescence emerges from center with delicate pink or white flowers arranged along the stem
Flowering typically occurs in spring; maintain good light and humidity; do not fertilize; allow flowers to self-pollinate or hand pollinate for seed production
Seed Production
4-6 weeksSmall seed capsules develop after successful pollination, containing hundreds of tiny seeds
Allow seeds to mature fully before harvesting; dry seeds can be stored in cool, dry conditions; viable for several months to years
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Ensure good air circulation; avoid overwatering; use sterile soil media; apply neem oil or insecticidal soap if severe
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Increase humidity; mist plant regularly; isolate affected plants; spray with dilute insecticidal soap or neem oil
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Remove with cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol; improve air circulation; treat with insecticidal soap if widespread
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Ensure excellent drainage; use sterile soil; avoid overwatering; repot in fresh medium if roots show decay; reduce watering in cool season
Uses
Natural Insect Control
WildlifeThe plant's sticky tentacles trap and digest flying insects including mosquitoes, gnats, and small flies, providing natural pest control in greenhouses and indoor gardens. This carnivorous mechanism makes it an effective biological pest management tool. [source]
Collector & Ornamental Display
CraftKing Sundew is highly prized by carnivorous plant enthusiasts and collectors for its large dramatic size and striking reddish coloring. It makes an impressive specimen plant for display in terrariums, plant collections, and specialized greenhouses. [source]
Conversation Piece & Educational Plant
HouseholdAs a rare, exotic carnivorous plant, it serves as a fascinating educational tool to teach about plant adaptation, carnivory, and unique ecological niches. Its dramatic appearance and hunting behavior captivate plant enthusiasts and students. [source]
Traditional Plant Compounds
MedicinalSome Drosera species have been used in traditional medicine for respiratory support and cough relief, though scientific evidence is limited. King Sundew contains similar compounds to other sundew species with potential antimicrobial properties. [source]
Ecological Research & Conservation
WildlifeKing Sundew is studied for its unique carnivorous adaptations and ecological role as an insectivore. It represents an important specimen for understanding plant evolution and conservation of rare endemic species. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
King Sundew is not harvested for consumption. Seeds can be collected after flowers complete blooming and capsules dry; harvest when capsules turn brown and begin to split. Collect offsets or plantlets at base only if plant produces them. For propagation, collect mature seeds, dry thoroughly, and store in paper envelope in cool, dry conditions.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 King Sundew is one of the largest sundew species and can produce leaves up to 12 inches long, making it significantly more impressive than most of its relatives which typically remain much smaller.
- 🌱 The plant's reddish tentacles contain sticky mucilage produced by glandular hairs that not only trap insects but also absorb nutrients directly from the prey—essentially creating a living insect-catching and dissolving trap.
- 🌱 In its native South African habitat, King Sundew is found in very specific wetland areas and faces threats from habitat loss, making it a priority for conservation efforts and home cultivation to preserve the species.
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