How to Grow Sundews (Drosera species)
Sundews (Drosera species)
Drosera spp.
flowerSundews are carnivorous plants characterized by sticky, glandular tentacles on their leaves that trap and digest insects. These fascinating plants are found in nutrient-poor wetlands and bogs worldwide, where they supplement their nitrogen intake by consuming prey. Each species has adapted to specific habitats and microclimates.
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Example Sundews (Drosera species) timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Sundews (Drosera species)
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 Sundews (Drosera species) blooms
Mid-to-late summerBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Varies by species; temperate species thrive in zones 4-7, subtropical species in zones 8-11
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Seed to Seedling
2-6 weeks for germination; seedlings visible by week 2-4Tiny dust-like seeds germinate on wet substrate; cotyledons appear as microscopic thread-like structures
Maintain high humidity (60-80%), bright indirect light, constant moisture, and cool stratification period (4-6 weeks) for many temperate species. Keep under humidity dome or plastic covering
Juvenile Growth
4-12 weeksSmall rosettes form with early tentacles developing; plants are fragile and vulnerable to fungal issues
Provide excellent air circulation to prevent mold; maintain temperatures 50-70°F for temperate species; avoid handling; continue bottom-watering with distilled water only
Vegetative (Rosette Formation)
3-12 months depending on species and dormancyMature rosette with fully developed glandular tentacles covered in sticky mucilage; plant actively traps small insects
Never fertilize; provide natural light and dormancy period if temperate species; maintain humid environment; allow plant to trap its own food rather than feeding manually
Flowering
4-8 weeksDelicate flower stem emerges from rosette center; small pink, white, red, or yellow flowers appear; flowers are self-pollinating in most species
Allow flowering to complete natural cycle; reduce watering slightly during dormancy period; do not deadhead if seeds desired; maintain consistent conditions
Seed Production & Dormancy
8-16 weeks dormancy for temperate speciesTiny seed pods develop; temperate species enter dormancy (winter rest), tropical species may continue growing year-round
Temperate species: reduce light and temperature by 10-15°F for 8-12 weeks; continue moisture but reduce frequency. Tropical species: maintain warm temperatures and humidity
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Improve air circulation with small fan; reduce humidity slightly; remove affected leaves; avoid overhead watering; ensure peat-sand mix drains well
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Remove manually with soft brush dipped in distilled water; isolate plant; cannot use chemical pesticides due to plant sensitivity; repeat weekly inspection
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Allow soil surface to dry slightly between waterings; improve drainage; remove dead plant material; use fine mesh netting over drainage holes
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Ensure excellent drainage; use bottom-watering method; repot in fresh substrate if affected; reduce watering frequency
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and
Use only distilled water, rainwater, or reverse osmosis water; never use tap water or bottled spring water
Uses
Natural Insect Control
HouseholdSundews actively trap flying insects and small bugs, serving as an effective natural pest control in homes and greenhouses. A single plant can catch dozens of insects per day, reducing populations of gnats, flies, and mosquitoes. [source]
Botanical Collectors & Horticulture
CraftSundews are prized specimens for carnivorous plant enthusiasts and botanical collectors worldwide. Growing them successfully is considered an advanced horticultural challenge that demonstrates expertise. [source]
Traditional Herbal Uses
MedicinalSome Drosera species (particularly D. rotundifolia) have been used in traditional European herbalism for respiratory support and cough remedies, though modern clinical evidence is limited. [source]
Bog Ecosystem Support
WildlifeNative sundew species support specialized bog ecosystems and provide food sources for insects and small arthropods adapted to these unique wetland habitats. Growing native species helps preserve disappearing bog environments. [source]
Traditional Liqueurs & Extracts
CulinarySome sundew species have been used historically to create herbal liqueurs and tinctures in European folk traditions, though these are rarely produced commercially today. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Sundews are not harvested for food or plant material. Collect seeds 4-6 weeks after flowering when seed pods dry and turn brown; remove entire seed head and dry completely before storing in cool, dry place. Seeds remain viable 2-3 years when stored properly.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Sundews are among the fastest-moving plants on Earth—their sticky tentacles can bend and curl around prey in seconds, with some species triggering dramatic spiral movements to wrap insects completely
- 🌱 Different Drosera species have evolved in vastly different habitats: D. regia (King Sundew) grows in nutrient-poor South African waterfalls, while D. adelae thrives in Australian rainforest humidity, yet all use the same carnivorous hunting strategy
- 🌱 Sundew mucilage contains enzymes similar to those in human stomach acid, allowing them to dissolve insects and absorb nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium—nutrients that are nearly absent in their bog environments
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