Sundew (Drosera) Care Guide — The Diverse Carnivorous Plant That Catches Insects with Mucilage

The Charm of Drosera: A Beautiful Carnivorous Plant with Glowing Mucilage

Drosera (*Drosera* spp., also called sundew) is a carnivorous plant that produces sticky secretions from glandular hairs on its leaf surface, trapping insects that come into contact with them. The glistening mucilage, which reflects light like morning dew, is particularly beautiful among carnivorous plants and has captivated many collectors.

Over 200 species exist worldwide, with diverse ecological habits including tropical, temperate, and bulbous types.

Characteristics of Popular Varieties

D. rotundifolia (Round-leaved Sundew)

A temperate sundew endemic to Japan. Grows naturally in wetlands. Has small, rounded leaves. Becomes dormant in winter, forming resting buds on the water surface. A hardy species well-suited to Japan's climate.

D. capensis (Cape Sundew)

Native to South Africa. Has abundant mucilage on slender leaves. Fast-growing and easy to propagate. Relatively easy to grow indoors and popular with beginners. Grows year-round with no dormancy period.

D. adelae

Native to Australia. Long leaves spread in a rosette pattern. Can thrive in relatively low light. Easy to propagate by leaf cuttings.

D. regia (Regal Sundew)

A large species where leaves can grow over 60cm long. The massive mucilage traps are spectacular. Growth is slow.

Tuberous Drosera

A group of Australian bulbous species that survive summer dormancy. They grow in winter through spring and remain dormant as bulbs in summer. They require unique care.

Basic Care Guide

Water Management (Most Important)

Drosera requires distilled water. Chlorine and minerals in tap water damage the roots.

• Use rainwater, distilled water, RO water, or demineralized water
• Manage using bottom watering (place pure water in a saucer and allow the plant to absorb it from below)
• Without water, the mucilage disappears and the plant weakens

Light Management

Maintaining the glistening mucilage requires strong light.

• Direct sunlight outdoors (sheer curtains are acceptable)
• Bright windowsills if growing indoors
• Weak light causes mucilage to disappear and reduces the plant's ability to trap insects

Temperature

Temperate species (D. rotundifolia, etc.): Can be managed to match Japan's seasonal changes Tropical species (D. capensis, etc.): Maintain minimum temperatures above 15°C

Growing Medium

Nutrient-free soil is essential.

• Sphagnum moss (100%): Simplest and easiest to manage
• Peat moss + perlite (4:1 to 3:1): A commonly used mixture

Propagation

Many species, such as D. capensis, can be easily propagated by leaf cuttings.

1. Cut a healthy leaf at the base
2. Place it horizontally on moist sphagnum moss
3. Small shoots will emerge in a few weeks to a month

Summary

Drosera is a relatively easy-to-grow carnivorous plant as long as you follow three rules: distilled water, strong light, and bottom watering. The glistening mucilage has high ornamental value, and there is also the pleasure of observing insects being trapped. We recommend starting with D. capensis and gradually expanding to other varieties.