How to Grow Round-leaved Sundew
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Round-leaved Sundew
Drosera rotundifolia
flowerRound-leaved Sundew is a carnivorous plant with distinctive circular leaves covered in glistening, sticky tentacles that trap and digest insects. Native to boggy wetlands in the Northern Hemisphere, this delicate plant produces small pink or white flowers on thin stems. It thrives in acidic, nutrient-poor environments where it supplements its diet through insect digestion.
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Example Round-leaved Sundew timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Round-leaved 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 Round-leaved Sundew blooms
Mid-to-late summerBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 2-7; prefers cool, humid climates
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Get my Round-leaved Sundew timeline →Growth Stages
Seed Germination
3-4 weeksTiny seeds germinate on moist sphagnum surface; cotyledons emerge as microscopic leaves
Maintain high humidity (90%+), keep on light-colored or clear covering, use only distilled water, maintain cool temperatures (65-75°F)
Seedling & Rosette Formation
3-6 monthsSmall round leaves develop in a basal rosette; leaves begin producing sticky tentacles (glands) for trapping insects
Ensure bright, indirect light; maintain waterlogged conditions; mist frequently; keep in humid environment; continue distilled water only
Vegetative Growth
1-2 yearsRosette expands with larger leaves; more glands develop; plant establishes stronger root system
Maintain bog-like conditions; allow plant to rest in winter with cooler temperatures; provide bright light; protect from direct afternoon sun
Flowering
2-4 weeksThin flower stems (inflorescence) emerge from rosette center; small pink, white, or red flowers appear in clusters
Plant needs to be mature (typically 2-3 years); maintain consistent moisture and humidity; do not disturb flower stems; allow natural pollination or hand-pollinate
Seed Production & Dormancy
6-8 weeks flowering period; dormancy 2-3 monthsFlowers produce small seed capsules; plant prepares for winter dormancy with reduced growth
Allow seeds to mature on plant; collect seeds once dry; reduce watering slightly in winter but keep soil moist; maintain cool dormancy period (35-50°F for 2-3 months)
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Ensure excellent air circulation, reduce humidity slightly if mold appears, remove affected leaves, sterilize tools; avoid stagnant water conditions
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Use sterile, well-aerated growing medium; maintain proper water quality; ensure good drainage with periodic air gaps; repot if necessary in fresh medium
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Increase humidity to 70%+ (mites dislike moisture); rinse leaves with distilled water; isolate infested plants; avoid pesticides (harmful to carnivorous plants)
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Reduce surface moisture; use sand topdressing; yellow sticky traps; allow partial drying of moss surface; improve air circulation
Uses
Traditional respiratory remedy
MedicinalHistorically used in folk medicine to treat coughs, asthma, and whooping cough in Northern European traditions. The plant has been prepared as tinctures or dried preparations, though scientific evidence is limited. [source]
Insect ecosystem support
WildlifeAs a carnivorous plant, sundews trap and digest insects, playing an ecological role in wetland food webs. Growing sundews supports biodiversity in bog ecosystems. [source]
Botanical specimen & hobby growing
CraftPrized by carnivorous plant collectors and botanical enthusiasts for its unique appearance and interesting biology. Growing challenges make it rewarding for specialized gardeners. [source]
Natural pest control
HouseholdThe sticky glands naturally trap flying insects (flies, gnats, midges), providing gentle biological pest control indoors without chemicals. [source]
Specialty preservation
CulinaryRarely, sundew is used to make specialty cordials or medicinal syrups in Nordic cuisines, though consumption is not common in modern kitchens. [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 is a carnivorous ornamental plant, not typically harvested for food. Collect seeds in late summer/early fall once seed pods dry; store in cool, dry conditions. Allow the plant to flower naturally for seed production. Never harvest leaves or disturb the plant's natural insect-trapping function.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The glistening, sticky droplets covering sundew leaves look like dewdrops but are actually mucilaginous secretions that trap insects—the plant's 'sticky traps' are more effective than traditional flypaper.
- 🌱 Round-leaved Sundew has been used for centuries in Scandinavian folk medicine and appears in historical herbals; it was even believed to have magical properties in medieval times.
- 🌱 Unlike Venus Flytraps, sundews do not snap shut; instead, they slowly curl their leaf tentacles (called 'tentacles') around trapped insects over several hours to maximize nutrient absorption—a patient, methodical approach to digestion.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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