How to Grow Sundew

Sundew

Drosera species

flower

Sundews are carnivorous plants renowned for their sticky, glistening tentacles that trap and digest insects. Native to wetlands worldwide, these small but fascinating plants produce delicate flowers and require specific growing conditions to thrive. They are popular among specialty plant collectors for their unique adaptation and ornamental appeal.

Looking for a specific variety?

Drosera rotundifolia Drosera adelae Drosera spatulata Drosera binata Drosera capensis Drosera filiformis

Growing Conditions

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Sun: Bright, indirect light or partial shade; 4-6 hours of filtered sunlight daily; intense afternoon sun should be diffused

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Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; use distilled water or rainwater only, never tap water; maintain high humidity (50-80%)

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Spacing: 4-6 inches between plants inches

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Days to maturity: Variable; flowering typically occurs within 1-2 years

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Planting depth: Surface sow seeds; do not bury; press lightly onto moist substrate

Soil

Type: Nutrient-poor, acidic, sandy or peat-based soil

pH: 4.0-5.5

Amendments:

Sphagnum peat moss Sand (coarse or silica) Perlite Avoid fertilizer entirely

Growing Zones

Find your zone →

Varies by species; temperate zones 4-9 generally suit most varieties; tropical species prefer zones 9-11

3a 3b 4a 4b 5a 5b 6a 6b 7a 7b 8a 8b 9a 9b 10a 10b

Growth Stages

Seed Germination

2-4 weeks

Tiny seeds germinate on wet peat surface; pale rootlets emerge; cotyledons appear as microscopic structures

Maintain high humidity under plastic dome; use distilled water misting; keep at 60-70°F; germination takes 2-4 weeks

Seedling & Rosette Formation

4-8 weeks

First true leaves form in a basal rosette pattern; sticky tentacles begin developing; plant remains small, 0.5-1 inch diameter

Gradually reduce humidity after germination; ensure bright indirect light; use distilled water only; avoid disturbance

Vegetative Growth

4-6 months

Rosette expands slowly; red or green coloration develops; tentacles become more prominent and sticky; plant doubles in size

Maintain consistent moisture and high humidity; ensure bright light; allow natural dormancy period in winter if applicable; no feeding needed

Flowering

4-6 weeks

Tall, thin flower stalks emerge from center of rosette; delicate pink, white, or red flowers bloom in clusters

Support flower stalks if needed; maintain humidity and moisture; flowers attract pollinators naturally; allow insects for pollination if possible

Seed Production & Dormancy

Variable; 2-4 months dormancy

Flowers fade and seed pods develop; plant may enter dormancy period; some species require winter dormancy with reduced light and temperature

Allow pods to mature and dry; collect seeds if desired; reduce watering slightly during dormancy; maintain cool temperatures (45-50°F) for 2-3 months

Companion Planting

Plan your garden →

Plant with:

Pitcher plants (Sarracenia) Venus flytraps (Dionaea) Butterworts (Pinguicula) Bog moss Sphagnum species

Avoid planting near:

Fertilized plants Cacti Succulents requiring dry conditions Regular houseplants Plants requiring alkaline soil

Common Pests

Mist frequently to increase humidity; isolate affected plant; use neem oil as last resort
Improve air circulation; reduce watering frequency slightly; ensure substrate drains; use copper fungicide if severe
Plant naturally traps small insects; allow beneficial insects; rinse gently under distilled water if necessary

Uses

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Traditional Cough Remedy

Medicinal

Sundew has been used in traditional European herbalism as a cough suppressant and bronchial tonic. The plant contains compounds believed to have antispasmodic properties. [source]

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Natural Insect Control

Household

Sundews actively trap and digest flying insects without requiring pesticides, making them useful as a natural pest management tool in homes and greenhouses. A small collection can reduce populations of flies and gnats. [source]

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Pollinator & Insect Habitat

Wildlife

Sundew flowers attract bees and other pollinators, while the sticky traps capture prey insects, creating a specialized ecosystem. Growing sundews contributes to biodiversity and natural food web balance. [source]

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Botanical Curiosity & Specimen Collection

Craft

Sundews are prized by plant enthusiasts and collectors for their unique carnivorous adaptations and ornamental value. They make striking display specimens for vivariums, terrariums, and specialized plant collections. [source]

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Historic Liqueur Infusion

Culinary

In northern Europe, sundew plants have historically been used to infuse spirits into herbal liqueurs, though this use is now uncommon. The plant's flavor compounds were valued in folk beverage tradition. [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 sundews themselves; they are living plants to be cultivated indefinitely. Collect seeds after flowering: allow seed pods to dry completely, then carefully extract seeds and store in cool, dry conditions for 1-2 years. Propagate via leaf cuttings (advanced technique) by placing individual leaves on wet peat substrate.

Fun Facts

🌱 Sundew's sticky 'tentacles' (glandular hairs) can bend toward trapped insects within minutes, demonstrating plant movement without a nervous system.
🌱 Some sundew species are so efficient at insect digestion that they supplement nutrient-poor soil by absorbing nutrients directly from their prey.
🌱 The genus Drosera includes over 200 species found on every continent except Antarctica, making it one of the largest carnivorous plant genera.

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