"Sundew" refers to a whole genus of carnivorous plants (Drosera). Keep in mind that specific care requirements can vary slightly depending on the species.
Status in Florida: Native (several Drosera species are native to Florida)
Native Habitat: Bogs, swamps, wet pinelands, sandy shores, ditches. Generally found in nutrient-poor, acidic, and wet habitats.
Native State, Country: Widespread across the globe, including North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia.
Growing Zones: Varies depending on the species. Many are hardy in zones 7 - 10, but some are tropical and need warmer conditions.
Size at Maturity: Most Florida native sundews are relatively small, ranging from a few inches to about a foot tall.
Phenology: Herbaceous perennials (some species may die back in winter)
Life Cycle: Perennial
Growth Rate: Moderate
Growth Habit: Rosette-forming, low-growing
Bloom Season: Spring to summer (flowers are often small and held on tall stalks)
Sunlight Requirements: Full sun to part shade (most prefer bright light)
Soil Texture: Nutrient-poor, acidic, and consistently moist. A mix of peat moss and sand is often used for potted plants.
Soil pH: Acidic (around 4.5 - 5.5)
Moisture Requirements: Wet to moist. Sundews need consistently moist soil and high humidity. DO WATER WITH TAP WATER. Use rain or distilled water only.
Tolerance to Salt Spray: Low/None (except for a few species that grow in coastal areas)
Keystone Plant: No, but important for their unique ecological role.
Recommended Landscape Uses: Bog gardens, container gardens, terrariums, carnivorous plant collections.
Maintenance Tips: Keep the soil consistently moist with distilled water or rainwater. Avoid fertilizing (they get nutrients from insects).
Considerations: Carnivorous plants that trap insects on their sticky leaves. May need supplemental feeding with small insects if grown indoors.
Hurricane Wind Resistant: Yes (due to their low growth habit)
Erosion Control: No
Nitrogen Fixing: No
Edible: No
Pet Safe: Generally considered non-toxic to pets.
Deer and Rabbit Resistance: N/A (not typically an issue in their native habitat)
Historical Medicinal Uses: Some species have been used in traditional medicine for coughs and respiratory ailments.
Florida Native Companion Plant: Sarracenia spp. (Pitcher Plants), Pinguicula spp. (Butterworts)
Wildlife Benefit: Help control populations of small insects.
Caterpillar Host Plant: No
Propagation: Seed, leaf cuttings, root cuttings, division
Length of time Seed is Viable: Variable, but generally short-lived.
Best month to Start Seeds: Spring
Seed treatments: Surface sow seeds on a moist, acidic medium. Light is often required for germination.
Some common Drosera species in Florida:
Drosera capillaris (Pink Sundew): One of the most common sundews in Florida. Has pink flowers.
Drosera filiformis (Thread-leaf Sundew): Has long, thread-like leaves.
Drosera intermedia (Spoonleaf Sundew): Has spoon-shaped leaves.
DO NOT TAKE FROM THE WILD! These are culture grown to promote sustainability.
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