Spoonleaf sundew - Drosera intermedia (Care, Characteristics, Distribution, Images)

Spoonleaf sundew

Also known as: Long-leaved sundew

Spoonleaf sundew is a carnivorous plant. Its leaves are covered with glands that produce sweet nectar to attract insects. The plant captures insects with its sticky hairs and then secrets digestive enzymes to absorb the insect’s nutrients. Spoonleaf sundew is extremely cold-hardy and often used as an ornamental plant.

Scientific classification

Species

Spoonleaf sundew (Drosera intermedia)

Pinks, cacti, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer

Bloom Time

15 cm to 20 cm

Plant Height

30 cm to 90 cm

Spread

Green, Red

Leaf Color

8 mm

Flower Size

Summer

Growth Season

Images of Spoonleaf sundew

Distribution of Spoonleaf sundew

Distribution Map

Spoonleaf sundew is native to temperate and subtropical regions of the Northern Hemisphere, particularly in parts of Europe and North America. It has been introduced to select areas in South America. Spoonleaf sundew adapts to varying climates, from northern cold bogs to southern warm wetlands. This species is also cultivated beyond its indigenous and non-native ranges.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Fens, Shorelines, Meadows

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Quickly Identify Spoonleaf sundew

Rosette of spoon-shaped leaves with sticky glandular hairs for trapping insects.

White to pale pink flowers in one-sided raceme on slender stalks.

Oval-shaped capsule with bumpy reddish-brown seeds and dehiscence mechanism.

Bright green paddle-shaped leaves with red sticky hairs on upper surface.

Slender, semi-erect stem with reddish to green tint, unbranched and wiry.

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Care Guide for Spoonleaf sundew

Twice per week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Potting Mix, Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Spoonleaf sundew thrives in humid, moist conditions, requiring watering twice a week to maintain its sticky traps. Typically grown outdoors, it benefits from morning dew for hydration, essential for effective insect capture.

Pruning: Spoonleaf sundew flourishes with minimal pruning; remove dead leaves to foster growth. Prune from early to late spring for robust development and disease prevention. Use clean, sharp scissors for effective pruning, which enhances vitality and improves appearance.

Propagation: Spoonleaf sundew propagation involves cutting healthy leaf portions with a sterilized tool, then placing them in well-draining soil with high humidity and indirect light. Roots may take time to develop; once growth appears, gradually acclimate spoonleaf sundew to lower humidity.

Repotting: Repot spoonleaf sundew every 2-3 years in shallow pots during spring. Maintain high humidity with distilled water after repotting, avoiding fertilizers. A larger container promotes healthy growth, supporting spoonleaf sundew's unique insect-catching leaves.

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