Carnivorous Leafy Sundew (Drosera Stolonifera) 30 Seeds

 Drosera Stolonifera

"Leafy Sundew"

Drosera stolonifera stolonifera forms a tuber to survive the hot, dry Summers in its native Australia.

Fan leaved species such as Drosera stolonifera stolonifera tend to produce several sets of flowers. Some are produced at the ends of the stem, of about 30cm tall, while others may be produced on separate scapes emerging from the centre of the rosette. Drosera stolonifera stolonifera is a species that forms rosettes for a few weeks or months before it producing seeds. The plants turn reddish and rust orange with age.

An insectivorous plant, it can survive in nitrogen poor soils because it gets the nutrients it needs from insects. The upper surfaces of leaves are covered with hairs that secrete a sweet sticky substance. This attracts insects, which become smeared with it and unable to escape. The plant then exudes a digestive fluid that enables it to absorb most of the insect into its system.

Growth occurs during the Winter months. It is important to respect the seasonal pattern of growth in cultivation. Once the plant starts to die back and enter dormancy the soil should be allowed to gradually dry out as the plant starts storing up energies in the tuber for the next season's growth. During the Summer the pot should not be watered. Tuberous Sundews can only be repotted when dormant, as the stem connecting the tuber to the soil surface is delicate.
They should be grown in bright light, but with protection from full midday sun. In cloudy coastal areas, artificial light is preferable.