Thread-leaved Sundew
drosera filiformis
Also known as: ["Thread-leaved Sundew","Threadleaf Sundew"]
Overview
A carnivorous plant with slender, thread-like leaves covered in sticky glands that trap insects.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Droseraceae |
| Genus: | Drosera |
| Botanical Name: | Drosera filiformis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor bog garden or container with standing water
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: not required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Sphagnum moss-based mix or peat-perlite mix (1:1).
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every few months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than 20% of foliage at once.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to bright indirect light, 6–8 hours daily; adjust for seasonal intensity changes.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from direct midday sun to prevent scorching; place indoors near a south-facing window or outdoors in a partially shaded spot.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
challengingmoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; provide shade during peak summer hours; avoid fluorescent light for prolonged periods.
Watering
daily, keeping soil consistently moist
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; use water low in minerals; ensure excellent drainage.
Soil
sandy, acidic, nutrient-poor soil with high peat content
pH: Acidic, pH 4.0–6.0.
Keep soil consistently moist; use distilled water; avoid heavy potting soils.
Temperature
60–85°F (15–29°C); cooler temperatures (50–60°F or 10–15°C) during winter dormancy.
Protect from frost; maintain consistent temperatures; avoid sudden temperature swings.
Fertilizing
rarely, if ever, as they are carnivorous and obtain nutrients from insects
Never fertilize; feed with insects if desired; use only distilled or rainwater.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy stem cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–80°F or 21–27°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Sphagnum moss or a mix of peat and perlite (1:1).
Hormone
Not necessary but can aid rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), humidity dome, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools; keep medium consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip dead leaves at the base; trim spent flower stalks after blooming.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged leaves to maintain plant health and aesthetics.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead leaves; remove spent flowers; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure the crown is at soil level.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant outgrows its container; necessary to refresh soil and prevent root binding.
Checklist
Use fresh soil mix; check for root rot; ensure proper drainage; avoid burying the crown.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Use distilled or rainwater; water when topsoil is dry; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly onto the soil, avoiding the leaves; ensure water reaches the root zone; allow excess to drain freely; water in the morning to prevent fungal growth.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter dormancy; use distilled or rainwater to avoid mineral buildup.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite for aeration; use pure sphagnum moss for moisture retention; avoid organic matter that retains too much water.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf discoloration, reduced dew production, or stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Slows metabolic processes, reduces dew production, and may cause leaf damage or dormancy.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide a heat mat if necessary; avoid exposing to frost.
Hot Stress
Causes dehydration, leaf burn, and reduced trap efficiency due to excessive evaporation.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Avoid fertilizers; use distilled water; feed insects sparingly if needed.
Fertilizing Method
Not required; Drosera filiformis derives nutrients from insects; avoid chemical fertilizers.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that ingest Drosera filiformis may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation. The plant's carnivorous properties can cause mild digestive upset, though severe toxicity is unlikely.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Drosera filiformis by dogs may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the plant's carnivorous enzymes and compounds. The effects are generally not severe but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicDrosera filiformis contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The plant's carnivorous nature involves the production of enzymes and other substances that may irritate the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I care for Drosera filiformis?
A: Provide bright, indirect light, keep the soil consistently moist with distilled or rainwater, and maintain high humidity.
Q: Is Drosera filiformis toxic to pets?
A: There is no reliable information on its toxicity to pets; it is best to keep it out of reach.
Q: Why are the leaves turning yellow?
A: Yellowing leaves may indicate insufficient light, overwatering, or nutrient issues. Ensure proper growing conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Droseraceae |
| Care: | challenging |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | daily, keeping soil consistent |
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