Drosera natalensis, commonly known as the Natal sundew, is a captivating carnivorous plant originating from Southern Africa. This species lures insects with glistening, sticky “dew” on its leaves, trapping and digesting them for nutrients. It is a good choice for beginners due to its straightforward care requirements.
Drosera Natalensis Care
Light
Drosera natalensis thrives in bright, direct sunlight to produce its characteristic sticky dew and vibrant coloration. Providing at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily is ideal for optimal growth. If growing indoors, a south-facing window can provide sufficient light, though artificial grow lights are often necessary. Insufficient light can lead to a lack of dew production and overall decline in plant health, often resulting in greener leaves.
Water
Water quality is paramount for Drosera natalensis, as it is highly sensitive to minerals. Only use distilled water, rainwater, or reverse osmosis (RO) water. Tap water contains dissolved minerals and salts that accumulate in the soil, harming the plant. Most growers use the “tray method,” where the pot sits in a shallow tray with about 1 inch of water, keeping the medium consistently moist without waterlogging the roots.
Growing Medium
Drosera natalensis requires a nutrient-poor, acidic, and well-draining growing medium, reflecting its natural boggy habitat. A common mix consists of sphagnum peat moss combined with perlite or horticultural silica sand. A 1:1 ratio of peat to sand or perlite is recommended. Standard potting soil or any medium containing fertilizers will introduce excessive nutrients that can burn the plant’s roots and lead to its demise.
Temperature and Humidity
This subtropical sundew prefers moderate temperatures, ideally ranging between 65-85°F (18-29°C). While it tolerates slightly warmer or cooler conditions, consistent extreme temperatures cause stress. High humidity is beneficial, with 60-80% optimal. Indoors, placing the pot on a pebble tray with water or using a terrarium (ensuring good air circulation to prevent fungal issues) can help maintain adequate humidity levels.
Feeding Drosera Natalensis
While Drosera natalensis outdoors can naturally attract and capture its own insect prey, indoor plants may require supplemental feeding. The plant absorbs nutrients from trapped insects through its sticky dew. Small insects like fruit flies, gnats, or rehydrated bloodworms are suitable food sources.
When feeding, place the food directly onto the sticky tentacles of a dew-covered leaf. Avoid feeding human food or overly large insects, as these can lead to rot if not fully digested. Feeding once every two to four weeks per plant is sufficient.
Propagating Drosera Natalensis
Propagating Drosera natalensis can be accomplished through several methods. Leaf cuttings are a popular and effective technique. To perform a leaf cutting, carefully snip a healthy, dew-covered leaf from the plant and place it on a moist sphagnum moss medium or float it in pure water. Maintaining high humidity around the cuttings will encourage the development of new plantlets, which typically emerge within a few months.
Seed propagation is another viable method, as Drosera natalensis produces abundant seeds. Seeds can be sown on the surface of a moist peat-based medium, as they require light for germination and should not be buried. Germination usually occurs within a few weeks, especially when kept at room temperature around 70-80°F (21-27°C). Division is also an option for mature, clumping plants, as Drosera natalensis tolerates root disturbance well.
Common Issues
A common concern for Drosera natalensis growers is a lack of dew on the leaves. This often indicates insufficient light, inadequate humidity, or impure water. Ensuring bright, direct light and proper humidity with pure water can help restore dew production.
Stunted growth or a general decline in plant health typically points to issues with care practices. This can include using tap water, which leads to mineral buildup, or an incorrect growing medium containing nutrients. Poor air circulation, especially in enclosed environments like terrariums without ventilation, can contribute to rot.
Drosera natalensis can occasionally encounter pests like aphids or mealybugs. Addressing underlying environmental issues and promptly removing pests can help the plant recover.