Sand Sundew
drosera brevifolia
Also known as: ["Sand Sundew","Short-leaved Sundew"]
Overview
A small, carnivorous plant native to the southeastern United States, known for its sticky, glandular hairs that trap insects.
Benefits & Perks
["carnivorous","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Droseraceae |
| Genus: | Drosera |
| Botanical Name: | Drosera brevifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor bog garden or sunny, open area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, as it thrives in humid conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining
- Soil Type: Sphagnum moss-based mix with perlite or sand for drainage.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: low
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically during active growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Light
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to bright indirect light; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight to avoid scorching; provide dappled shade during peak heat; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Avoid sudden light changes; protect from harsh midday sun; rotate pot for even growth.
Watering
every 3–5 days, keeping soil consistently moist
Use distilled or rainwater; water from the bottom to avoid disturbing dew glands; ensure excellent drainage.
Soil
sandy, acidic, nutrient-poor soil
pH: Acidic, pH 4.5–6.0
Use pure sphagnum moss; avoid nutrient-rich soils; keep soil consistently moist.
Temperature
Warm to hot temperatures, ideally 70–85°F (21–29°C); can tolerate brief periods above 90°F (32°C) with adequate humidity.
Avoid drafts; maintain stable temperatures; use a thermometer to monitor conditions.
Fertilizing
rarely required, only if growing in very poor soil
Avoid fertilizing; use only if growth is poor; dilute heavily if used.
Propagation
Methods
Seed or division; seed is the most common method for this annual species.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Sow seeds on the surface of moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
- Provide bright light.
- Do not cover seeds (they need light to germinate).
Best Time: Spring, as temperatures warm and daylight increases.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright with indirect light; cover with a plastic bag to maintain humidity if needed.
Medium
Sphagnum moss or peat-based mix with perlite for drainage.
Hormone
Not necessary for seed propagation; rooting hormone may help with stem cuttings if attempted.
Timeline
Seeds germinate in 2–4 weeks under ideal conditions; plants complete their lifecycle in one season.
Tools Needed
Seed tray, sphagnum moss, plastic wrap or bag, distilled water.
Quick Tips
Do not bury seeds; keep consistently moist; provide bright light without direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip dead leaves at the base with clean scissors.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; remove dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance and prevent disease.
Tools
Clean scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Use clean tools; remove only dead/damaged leaves; avoid cutting healthy growth.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, if repotting is necessary.
Pot Size
Use the same size pot or slightly larger if roots are crowded.
Method
Use a well-draining mix; gently tease out roots if compacted; ensure no standing water.
Suggestions
Not typically needed, as Drosera brevifolia is an annual. If repotting a mature plant, do so carefully to avoid disturbing roots.
Checklist
Use fresh carnivorous plant mix; ensure good drainage; handle roots gently.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Use distilled water; water tray method; ensure fast drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly until water drains from the bottom, ensuring the root zone is saturated. Allow excess water to drain completely to prevent root rot. Water early in the day to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water frequently, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering slightly in winter but maintain humidity.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand to improve drainage; use distilled or rainwater to maintain acidity.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf curling, reduced dew production, or browning leaf edges in excessive heat; slow growth or dormancy in cold.
Cold Stress
Below 50°F (10°C) can cause dormancy or damage delicate foliage; prolonged cold may lead to root rot.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; use a heat mat if necessary; ensure soil remains moist but not waterlogged.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause dehydration, leaf burn, or reduced carnivorous activity.
Solution: Provide increased humidity, shade during peak sun, and ensure consistent watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use distilled water; avoid fertilizer unless necessary; apply sparingly if used.
Fertilizing Method
Generally not needed, as Drosera brevifolia is carnivorous and derives nutrients from insects. If necessary, use a very dilute (1/8 strength) liquid fertilizer once a month during growing season.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they consume Drosera brevifolia. The plant's enzymes can cause digestive upset, though it is not considered highly toxic to felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Drosera brevifolia can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the plant's enzymatic compounds. While not highly toxic, it can cause discomfort and should be avoided.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicDrosera brevifolia, commonly known as the dwarf sundew, contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress upon ingestion. The plant's carnivorous nature involves the production of digestive enzymes, which can irritate the human digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I care for Drosera brevifolia?
A: Provide full sun, acidic soil, and distilled or rainwater. Keep the soil consistently moist.
Q: Is Drosera brevifolia toxic to pets?
A: There is no reliable information on its toxicity to pets.
Q: Does Drosera brevifolia attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts insects and may indirectly support other wildlife.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Droseraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 3–5 days, keeping soil |
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