Australian Sundew
Drosera aliciaeUSDA | Grow Zone
10-11Outdoors all year in zones 10 to 11. Anywhere colder, keep it as a houseplant. Protect it below 50°F.
- Light
- Bright, indirect
- Water
- When top inch is dry
- Humidity
- 50-70%
- Temperature
- 70-85°F (21-29°C)
- Difficulty
- Intermediate
- Growth
- Moderate
- Mature size
- 6-12 in tall, 6-8 in wide
- Pets
- Non-toxic to pets
Drosera aliciae, commonly known as the Australian Sundew, is a fascinating carnivorous plant native to Australia. Known for its unique leaf structure that traps insects, it is a popular choice among plant enthusiasts for its beauty and intriguing feeding habits.
Ask Vesper about Australian Sundew
Ideal temperature
70-85°F is where it grows fastest. Below 50°F cold damage starts.
Spacing and harvest
- Mature size
- 6-12 in tall, 6-8 in wide
- Plant apart
- 6-12 in
- Frost
- Tender: no frost
Everything it needs
9 essentials at a glance
Watering
Drosera aliciae requires consistently moist conditions, so water it thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Use distilled or rainwater to avoid mineral buildup. During the growing season (spring and summer), water more frequently, about once a week, while in the dormant season (fall and winter), reduce watering to every 10-14 days. Signs of over-watering include yellowing leaves and root rot, while under-watering may cause the leaves to become crispy and dry.
Light
This plant thrives in bright, indirect light or partial shade.
Ideally, it should receive around 12-14 hours of light per day, making a south or west-facing window an excellent choice. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, so ensure it is filtered or indirect. It can tolerate some shade but will not grow as vigorously.
Soil
Drosera aliciae prefers a well-draining, acidic soil mix.
A combination of sphagnum moss, perlite, and orchid bark works well, with a pH range of 4.5 to 6.0. Ensure the pot has drainage holes, as this plant does not tolerate standing water.
Humidity
This sundew enjoys high humidity levels, ideally between 50-70%.
To increase humidity, consider using a humidity tray filled with water or a room humidifier. If the air is too dry, you may notice leaf curling or browning tips, indicating humidity stress.
Temperature
Drosera aliciae thrives in temperatures between 70-85°F (21-29°C) during the day and can tolerate cooler nights down to 50°F (10°C).
It is best suited for USDA hardiness zones 10-11, as it cannot withstand frost or freezing temperatures.
Fertilizing
Use a diluted, balanced fertilizer (NPK ratio of 10-10-10) during the growing season, applying it every 4-6 weeks.
Be cautious not to over-fertilize, as this can harm the plant. Signs of nutrient deficiency include stunted growth and pale leaves.
Pruning
Prune Drosera aliciae to remove dead or damaged leaves, which helps promote healthy growth.
Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears for the best results. Deadheading is not necessary, but removing spent flower stalks can encourage the plant to focus energy on leaf production.
Repotting
Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant outgrows its pot, typically when roots start to emerge from the drainage holes.
Choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter. Carefully remove the plant from its pot, refresh the soil, and place it in the new pot, ensuring the roots are not damaged.
Propagation
Propagation can be achieved through leaf cuttings or seeds.
For leaf cuttings, select a healthy leaf, place it on moist soil, and cover it with a plastic bag to maintain humidity. Keep it in bright, indirect light until new growth appears, usually within a few weeks. If using seeds, sow them on the surface of moist soil and keep them in a warm, humid environment until germination.
When it's unhappy
Yellow leaves
Why it happens
This can be caused by over-watering or insufficient light.
How to fix it
Adjust watering frequency and ensure the plant receives adequate light.
Brown leaf tips
Why it happens
Often a sign of low humidity or underwatering.
How to fix it
Increase humidity levels and adjust watering schedule.
Leaf curling
Why it happens
Usually indicates humidity stress.
How to fix it
Increase humidity around the plant, possibly using a humidity tray.
Root rot
Why it happens
Caused by overly wet soil and poor drainage.
How to fix it
Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings and ensure proper drainage.
Stunted growth
Why it happens
Can be due to nutrient deficiency or inadequate light.
How to fix it
Fertilize appropriately and ensure the plant receives sufficient light.
Care through the year
Spring
In spring, increase watering frequency as the plant emerges from dormancy. Ensure it receives plenty of bright, indirect light to encourage new growth.
Summer
During summer, maintain consistent moisture and humidity levels. Fertilize every 4-6 weeks to support active growth.
Fall
In fall, gradually reduce watering as the plant prepares for dormancy. Monitor light levels as days shorten.
Winter
In winter, reduce watering to every 10-14 days and keep the plant in a cool, bright location to prevent stress.
Toxicity & Safety
Drosera aliciae is non-toxic to pets and children. It is safe to have around, but ingestion of any plant material may cause mild stomach upset.
Good to know
How often should I water my Australian Sundew?
Water your Australian Sundew when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically once a week during the growing season, and every 10-14 days in winter.
What light conditions are best for Drosera aliciae?
Drosera aliciae prefers bright, indirect light or partial shade, ideally receiving 12-14 hours of light per day without direct sunlight.
How do I increase humidity for my Sundew?
To increase humidity, use a humidity tray filled with water or a humidifier. Keeping the plant in a bathroom or kitchen can also help.
What type of soil is best for Drosera aliciae?
A well-draining, acidic mix of sphagnum moss, perlite, and orchid bark is ideal for Drosera aliciae, with a pH range of 4.5 to 6.0.
Can I fertilize my Australian Sundew?
Yes, use a diluted balanced fertilizer during the growing season every 4-6 weeks, but avoid over-fertilizing to prevent harm.
When should I repot my Drosera aliciae?
Repot every 1-2 years or when roots emerge from drainage holes, using a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter.
Is Drosera aliciae safe for pets?
Yes, Drosera aliciae is non-toxic to pets and children, making it a safe choice for households.
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