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"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.

Sundew, Dorsera spp.

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