Roundleaf sundew - Drosera rotundifolia (Care, Characteristics, Distribution, Images)

Roundleaf sundew

Also known as: Sundew

You’ll find roundleaf sundew (Drosera rotundifolia), a carnivorous plant, in bogs and freshwater marshes. The species devours insects, which are lured to the sticky drops on its leaves. Once the bug tastes the sweetness of these drops, it's stuck to the plant’s tentacles. The plant then proceeds to dissolve the insect using enzymes to extract ammonia and other nutrients.

Scientific classification

Species

Roundleaf sundew (Drosera rotundifolia)

Pinks, cacti, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer

Bloom Time

5 cm to 25 cm

Plant Height

10 cm to 15 cm

Spread

Green, Red

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

White, Pink

Flower Color

Green, Red

Stem Color

Images of Roundleaf sundew

Distribution of Roundleaf sundew

Distribution Map

Roundleaf sundew, or 'Drosera rotundifolia', is a plant naturally found in the temperate regions across the Northern Hemisphere, widespread in areas of Eurasia and North America. It has been introduced and established in South America. Despite originating in cooler climates, roundleaf sundew is also found in temperate parts of Asia. Its adaptability allows for cultivation in suitable habitats beyond its indigenous range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Sphagnum bogs, fens, beaver ponds, swamps, peaty gravels, sandy soil, wet sand pits, emergent sandy shorelines

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Quickly Identify Roundleaf sundew

Round, sticky leaves in a basal rosette shape.

Slender, spiraled flowering stem without branching.

Small white flowers with five petals in one-sided clusters.

Shallow roots and compact capsule fruit for seed dispersal.

Distinctive reddish coloration and glandular hairs on leaves.

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Care Guide for Roundleaf sundew

Twice per week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

0 - 21 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Potting Mix, Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Roundleaf sundew thrives in humid, marshy environments, requiring consistent moisture. Water twice weekly to replicate its native conditions. Usually grown outdoors, it is an evergreen that depends on ample water for its insect-trapping mechanisms year-round.

Pruning: Roundleaf sundew is a carnivorous plant with sticky leaves that trap insects. Pruning in early to late spring promotes growth and vitality. Carefully remove dead leaves to enhance light and air circulation, aiding energy conservation. Avoid over-pruning to prevent stress to the plant.

Propagation: Native to nutrient-poor bogs, roundleaf sundew thrives on insects captured by its sticky leaves. To propagate, divide the root cluster during repotting, ensuring each section has roots and leaves. Plant in a moist, acidic medium, maintaining humidity and bright, indirect light for optimal growth.

Repotting: Repot roundleaf sundew every 2-3 years in spring using shallow, wide containers with a peat-sand mix. Post-repotting, ensure high humidity and refrain from fertilizers, as roundleaf sundew thrives on nutrients obtained through insect digestion.

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