Round-leaved Sundew
Drosera rotundifolia · Roundleaf Sundew · Common SundewUSDA | Grow Zone
5-8Outdoors all year in zones 5 to 8. Anywhere colder, keep it as a houseplant. Protect it below 40°F.
- Light
- Full sun, 6-8 hours
- Water
- Keep soil damp, not soggy
- Humidity
- 50-80% humidity
- Temperature
- 60-75°F (15-24°C)
- Difficulty
- Intermediate
- Growth
- Moderate
- Mature size
- 6-12 in tall, 6-10 in wide
- Pets
- Non-toxic to pets and children
Drosera rotundifolia, commonly known as the Round-leaved Sundew, is a fascinating carnivorous plant native to bogs and wetlands. Its unique leaf structure, covered in sticky glandular hairs, allows it to capture and digest insects, making it a captivating addition to any plant collection.
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Ideal temperature
60-75°F is where it grows fastest. Below 40°F cold damage starts.
Spacing and harvest
- Mature size
- 6-12 in tall, 6-10 in wide
- Plant apart
- 6-12 in
- Frost
- Half hardy: light frost only
Everything it needs
9 essentials at a glance
Watering
Drosera rotundifolia prefers consistently moist conditions.
Water with distilled water or rainwater, keeping the soil damp but not waterlogged. During the growing season (spring to summer), water every 2-3 days, and reduce frequency in fall and winter. Signs of over-watering include yellowing leaves and root rot, while under-watering may cause leaves to curl and droop.
Light
This plant thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Ideal placement is in a bright windowsill or outdoors in a sunny spot. It can tolerate partial shade but may not produce as many dew droplets, which are essential for its insect-catching ability.
Soil
Drosera rotundifolia prefers a nutrient-poor, acidic soil mix, ideally composed of sphagnum moss, perlite, and sand in a 1:1:1 ratio.
The pH should be between 4.5 and 5.5. Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot, as this plant is sensitive to overly rich or compacted soils.
Humidity
This sundew thrives in high humidity levels, ideally between 50-80%.
To increase humidity, consider using a humidity tray filled with water and pebbles or misting the plant regularly. Signs of humidity stress include browning leaf tips and reduced dew production.
Temperature
Drosera rotundifolia prefers a temperature range of 60-75°F (15-24°C) during the day and slightly cooler at night.
It is hardy in USDA zones 5-8, tolerating light frost but should be protected from extreme heat. Seasonal temperature adjustments may be necessary, especially in summer.
Fertilizing
Drosera rotundifolia does not require regular fertilization due to its adaptation to nutrient-poor environments.
If needed, use a diluted orchid fertilizer (NPK 30-10-10) once a month during the growing season. Signs of nutrient deficiency include poor growth and lack of dew production.
Pruning
Prune dead or damaged leaves as needed to encourage healthy growth.
Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to avoid introducing pathogens. Deadheading is not necessary, but removing spent flower stalks can help redirect energy to the plant.
Repotting
Repotting should be done every 1-2 years or when the plant outgrows its container.
Choose a pot that is slightly larger, ensuring it has drainage holes. Signs it needs repotting include roots growing out of the drainage holes and stunted growth. Carefully remove the plant, refresh the soil, and replant it.
Propagation
Propagation can be achieved through seed sowing or division.
For seeds, sow them on the surface of moist sphagnum moss and keep them in a warm, humid environment until germination, which can take several weeks. Division should be done in spring when the plant is actively growing. Carefully separate the rhizomes and replant them in suitable soil.
When it's unhappy
Yellow leaves
Why it happens
This can be caused by over-watering or low light conditions.
How to fix it
Ensure the plant is in bright light and adjust watering frequency to allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Brown leaf tips
Why it happens
Brown tips often indicate low humidity or underwatering.
How to fix it
Increase humidity levels around the plant and ensure consistent watering.
Lack of dew production
Why it happens
Insufficient light or nutrient-rich soil can lead to reduced dew.
How to fix it
Provide full sun exposure and avoid fertilizing the plant.
Root rot
Why it happens
Over-watering and poor drainage can lead to root rot.
How to fix it
Ensure proper drainage and adjust watering practices to keep the soil moist but not soggy.
Pests (e.g., aphids)
Why it happens
Pests can infest the plant, especially in low humidity.
How to fix it
Inspect regularly and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil if necessary.
Care through the year
Spring
In spring, resume regular watering and provide full sunlight as the plant comes out of dormancy. Monitor for new growth and adjust humidity levels.
Summer
During summer, maintain consistent moisture and ensure the plant receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight. Check for pests regularly.
Fall
In fall, gradually reduce watering frequency as the plant prepares for dormancy. Keep it in bright light but avoid extreme temperature changes.
Winter
In winter, reduce watering to every 7-10 days and maintain cooler temperatures. Ensure the plant is in a well-lit area to prevent etiolation.
Toxicity & Safety
Drosera rotundifolia is non-toxic to pets and children. It is safe to handle, but ingestion of any plant material may cause mild gastrointestinal upset.
Good to know
How often should I water my Drosera rotundifolia?
Water your Round-leaved Sundew every 2-3 days during the growing season, ensuring the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Why are my Drosera rotundifolia leaves turning yellow?
Yellow leaves can indicate over-watering or insufficient light. Adjust your watering schedule and ensure the plant receives adequate sunlight.
What type of soil is best for Drosera rotundifolia?
A nutrient-poor, acidic mix of sphagnum moss, perlite, and sand in equal parts is ideal for Drosera rotundifolia.
How can I increase humidity for my sundew?
To increase humidity, use a humidity tray filled with water and pebbles or mist the plant regularly, aiming for levels between 50-80%.
Can I fertilize my Drosera rotundifolia?
Fertilization is not typically necessary, but if desired, use a diluted orchid fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
How do I propagate Drosera rotundifolia?
You can propagate this plant through seed sowing or division. For seeds, sow on moist sphagnum moss and keep warm and humid until germination.
What are the signs of root rot in Drosera rotundifolia?
Signs of root rot include yellowing leaves, mushy roots, and a general decline in plant health. Adjust watering practices to prevent this issue.
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