How to Grow Sundew (small Drosera species)
Sundew (small Drosera species)
Drosera spp. (small species)
flowerSmall sundews are carnivorous plants characterized by sticky, glistening tentacles on their leaves that trap and digest insects for nitrogen. These fascinating plants are typically compact, ranging from 1-6 inches tall, and produce delicate flowers in white, pink, or red. They thrive in nutrient-poor, acidic soils and are prized by plant collectors for their unique aesthetic and predatory nature.
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Example Sundew (small Drosera species) timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Sundew (small 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 Sundew (small 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 (D. rotundifolia, D. intermedia) thrive in zones 3-8; tropical species (D. adelae, D. spatulata) prefer zones 9-11 or indoor cultivation
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Seed & Germination
2-4 weeksTiny seeds are dust-like and require light to germinate; seedlings emerge as miniature rosettes with only a few tentacles
Surface sow on moist peat/sand mix; provide bright light; maintain moisture; germination takes 2-4 weeks; do not allow to dry out
Seedling & Early Growth
3-6 monthsSmall rosettes with 4-8 leaves develop; tentacles become more prominent and sticky; plant remains compact
Maintain high humidity; use distilled water only; provide bright indirect light; avoid handling leaves as oils damage tentacles; no fertilizer
Vegetative Growth
3-6 months or ongoingRosette expands to mature size (1-6 inches depending on species); dense tentacles fully developed and highly adhesive; dormancy may occur in temperate species
Maintain consistent moisture and humidity; provide bright light; allow dormancy period in winter for temperate species (reduce water, cool temperatures 40-50°F); tropical species grow year-round
Flowering
3-8 weeksDelicate flowers (white, pink, or red) appear on tall, thin inflorescences extending above the rosette; flowers are small and numerous
Do not disturb flowering plants; flowers attract pollinators; allow self-pollination to occur; flowering typically occurs in spring/early summer for temperate species
Seed Production & Dormancy
4-12 weeks; dormancy 2-4 monthsFlowers fade and produce tiny seed capsules; temperate species may enter dormancy with reduced leaf production and energy conservation; tropical species continue growth
Allow seed pods to dry naturally; collect seeds when pods brown; for temperate species entering dormancy, reduce water slightly and provide cool period (40-50°F for 2-3 months); resume normal care in spring
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Reduce excess moisture; ensure adequate air circulation; isolate affected plants; use sticky traps if needed; the plant will actually feed on some gnats, but severe infestations can stress the plant
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and
Improve air circulation with a small fan; reduce watering frequency if stagnant moisture occurs; avoid spraying leaves; ensure distilled water only; sterilize tools
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Increase humidity; spray with distilled water mist; isolate affected plants; use neem oil as a last resort (may damage delicate tentacles)
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Remove by hand with a soft brush and distilled water; isolate affected plants; avoid using oils or alcohol which damage tentacles
Uses
Natural Insect Control
WildlifeSundews passively trap and digest flying insects including gnats, flies, and mosquitoes, making them valuable for natural pest management in greenhouses and indoor spaces. [source]
Specialty Plant Collecting
CraftSmall Drosera species are highly prized by plant enthusiasts and carnivorous plant collectors due to their unique appearance, intricate sticky tentacles, and fascinating predatory nature. [source]
Traditional Herbal Use
MedicinalVarious Drosera species have been used in traditional European herbalism, particularly D. rotundifolia, for respiratory support and cough relief, though modern clinical evidence is limited. [source]
Bog Garden Centerpiece
HouseholdSmall sundews create an exotic focal point in terrariums, closed terrariums, and indoor bog garden displays, adding visual interest and conversation value to home or office spaces. [source]
Not Edible—Botanical Interest
CulinaryWhile not consumed, sundews are botanically remarkable for their enzymatic secretions similar to digestive juices, sparking scientific and educational curiosity about plant evolution and adaptation. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Do not harvest leaves or tentacles as this damages the plant's feeding mechanism and ability to photosynthesize. Collect seeds only: allow flower seed pods to mature and brown completely (4-8 weeks after flowering), then carefully remove dry pods and extract seeds. Store seeds in a cool, dry place in a sealed container; viable for 1-3 years.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Sundew leaves secrete a sticky mucilage containing digestive enzymes that can break down and absorb nutrients from trapped insects within 24-48 hours, supplementing the plant's nutrition in nitrogen-poor soils.
- 🌱 Small Drosera species like D. rotundifolia are native to boggy areas across the Northern Hemisphere and can be found growing wild in northern Europe, Asia, and North America.
- 🌱 The name 'sundew' comes from the sparkling, dew-like appearance of the sticky tentacles in sunlight, which not only attracts insects but has inspired artists and naturalists for centuries.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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