Drosera spatulata
Drosera spatulataUSDA | Grow Zone
10-11Outdoors all year in zones 10 to 11. Anywhere colder, keep it as a houseplant. Protect it below 40°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, 4-6 in wide
- Pets
- Non-toxic to pets and children
Drosera spatulata, commonly known as the spoon-leaved sundew, is a captivating carnivorous plant native to Australia. Its unique leaf structure attracts and traps insects, making it a favorite among plant enthusiasts.
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Ideal temperature
50-85°F is where it grows fastest. Below 40°F cold damage starts.
Spacing and harvest
- Mature size
- 6-12 in tall, 4-6 in wide
- Plant apart
- 6-12 in
- Frost
- Half hardy: light frost only
Everything it needs
9 essentials at a glance
Watering
Drosera spatulata prefers to be kept consistently moist, so water it thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry.
During the growing season, typically spring and summer, water every 1-2 weeks, ensuring the pot has good drainage. In winter, reduce watering to once every 2-3 weeks. Signs of over-watering include yellowing leaves and root rot, while under-watering may cause the plant to wilt and leaves to dry out.
Light
This plant thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sunlight.
Ideally, it should receive around 10-12 hours of light daily. A south or east-facing window is perfect, but avoid harsh afternoon sun which can scorch the leaves.
Soil
Drosera spatulata requires a well-draining, acidic soil mix, ideally composed of sphagnum moss and perlite or sand in a 1:1 ratio.
The pH should be between 4.5 and 6.0. Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
Humidity
This plant prefers high humidity levels of 50-70%.
To increase humidity, you can use a humidity tray filled with water and pebbles or mist the plant regularly. Signs of low humidity include browning leaf tips and stunted growth.
Temperature
Drosera spatulata thrives in temperatures between 70-85°F (21-29°C) during the day and slightly cooler at night.
It can tolerate temperatures as low as 50°F (10°C) but should be protected from frost. This plant is typically found in USDA hardiness zones 10-11.
Fertilizing
Use a diluted, balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10, applying it every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
In fall and winter, reduce feeding to once every 8 weeks or stop altogether. Signs of nutrient deficiency include pale leaves and stunted growth.
Pruning
Prune dead or damaged leaves as needed to promote healthy growth.
Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to avoid introducing disease. Deadheading is not necessary for this plant, but removing spent leaves can improve air circulation.
Repotting
Repot Drosera spatulata every 1-2 years or when the plant outgrows its pot.
Choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter. Signs it needs repotting include roots growing out of the drainage holes or stunted growth. To repot, gently remove the plant from its current pot, refresh the soil, and place it in the new pot, ensuring the roots are well-covered.
Propagation
Propagation can be achieved through leaf cuttings or seeds.
For leaf cuttings, take a healthy leaf and place it on moist sphagnum moss, keeping it humid and warm until new growth appears. Seeds can be sown on the surface of moist soil and kept in a warm, humid environment until germination, which usually occurs within 2-4 weeks.
When it's unhappy
Yellow leaves
Why it happens
Often caused by over-watering or low light conditions.
How to fix it
Adjust watering frequency and ensure the plant receives adequate light.
Brown leaf tips
Why it happens
Usually a sign of low humidity or underwatering.
How to fix it
Increase humidity levels and adjust watering schedule to keep the soil consistently moist.
Root rot
Why it happens
Caused by excessive moisture and poor drainage.
How to fix it
Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings and ensure the pot has adequate 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 is receiving enough light.
Leaf curling
Why it happens
Often a response to environmental stress, such as temperature fluctuations or low humidity.
How to fix it
Maintain stable temperatures and increase humidity around the plant.
Care through the year
Spring
In spring, resume regular watering and fertilizing as the plant begins to actively grow. Ensure it receives plenty of light.
Summer
During summer, keep the soil consistently moist and monitor humidity levels, as the plant may require more water in warmer temperatures.
Fall
In fall, gradually reduce watering frequency as the plant prepares for dormancy. Cut back on fertilizing to once every 8 weeks.
Winter
In winter, reduce watering to every 2-3 weeks and ensure the plant is kept in a cool, bright location to prevent dormancy stress.
Toxicity & Safety
Drosera spatulata is non-toxic to pets and children. It is safe to have around, but ingestion of any plant material may cause mild gastrointestinal upset.
Good to know
How often should I water my Drosera spatulata?
Water your Drosera spatulata every 1-2 weeks, ensuring the top inch of soil is dry before watering again. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
What light conditions are best for Drosera spatulata?
Drosera spatulata thrives in bright, indirect light, ideally receiving 10-12 hours of light daily. A south or east-facing window is ideal.
How do I increase humidity for my Drosera spatulata?
To increase humidity, use a humidity tray filled with water and pebbles or mist the plant regularly. Aim for humidity levels of 50-70%.
What is the ideal temperature for Drosera spatulata?
Drosera spatulata prefers temperatures between 70-85°F (21-29°C) during the day and slightly cooler at night. Protect it from frost.
Can I propagate Drosera spatulata from cuttings?
Yes, you can propagate Drosera spatulata from leaf cuttings. Place a healthy leaf on moist sphagnum moss and keep it humid until new growth appears.
What should I do if my Drosera spatulata has yellow leaves?
Yellow leaves can indicate over-watering or low light. Adjust your watering schedule and ensure the plant is getting enough light.
How often should I fertilize my Drosera spatulata?
Fertilize every 4-6 weeks during the growing season with a diluted balanced fertilizer. Reduce feeding in fall and winter.
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