Pygmy sundews (genus Drosera, specifically subgenus Bryastrum) are captivating miniature carnivorous plants. They feature sticky tentacles that glitter with mucilage, used to ensnare tiny insects.
Unique Characteristics of Pygmy Sundews
Pygmy sundews distinguish themselves through their exceptionally small stature. Most varieties form rosettes typically ranging from 8 to 25 millimeters in diameter, with some species growing up to 2-3 inches tall over several years. They often form dense clusters resembling patches of moss.
A defining feature of pygmy sundews is their production of gemmae, specialized asexual buds. These modified leaves typically form in autumn or winter from the plant’s crown, serving as a primary means of propagation. Gemmae are released from the parent plant, often dispersing with raindrops, quickly developing into new plants upon landing on suitable moist substrate.
Their diverse rosette shapes and colors add to their appeal. While many species are green, bright light can induce vibrant red or orange coloration in their tentacles and leaves, often indicating optimal light conditions. Some species even feature unique flowers with metallic lusters or sweet fragrances, disproportionately large compared to the plant itself.
Pygmy Sundew Care Guide
Light
Pygmy sundews thrive in bright, direct light, essential for vibrant colors and robust growth. Ample illumination encourages the production of sticky dew on their tentacles. Indoors, strong grow lights are often necessary to mimic their native sunny habitats.
Insufficient light leads to a lack of dew production, stunted growth, and pale coloration. Positioning them a few inches from a T-12 grow light or similar powerful LED setup provides the necessary intensity. Consistent bright light ensures the plants remain compact and effectively trap insects.
Water
The “tray method” is the recommended watering approach, ensuring consistent moisture for their shallow root systems. Place the plant pot in a tray filled with 1-2 inches of water, allowing the growing medium to absorb water from the bottom. Replenish the water level as it evaporates, preventing the substrate from drying out.
Only distilled water, reverse osmosis (RO) water, or rainwater should be used. Tap water contains minerals that can accumulate in the soil and harm these plants. Pygmy sundews are accustomed to nutrient-poor, acidic environments, and mineral buildup can lead to leaf tip burn or decline. Maintain perpetually moist, but not waterlogged, conditions.
Growing Medium
Pygmy sundews require a nutrient-poor, acidic, and well-draining growing medium. A common mix consists of equal parts sphagnum peat moss and horticultural-grade perlite or silica sand. This combination provides aeration and drainage while retaining moisture without becoming overly saturated.
Avoid potting mixes that contain added fertilizers, compost, or nutrient-rich garden soil, as these are detrimental to carnivorous plants. Their carnivorous adaptations allow them to obtain nutrients from insects; rich soil can lead to root rot or nutrient burn. Tall pots, often 4 to 8 inches deep, are beneficial because pygmy sundews develop long, thin roots that extend deeply into the substrate.
Temperature and Humidity
Pygmy sundews generally prefer warm to moderate temperatures, typically ranging between 50°F and 80°F. While they tolerate occasional fluctuations, prolonged exposure to temperatures above 85-90°F may induce a summer dormancy. In their natural habitats, some species enter dormancy during hot, dry summers, resuming active growth when cooler, moister conditions return.
Moderate to high humidity is generally beneficial for copious dew production, though pygmy sundews are often more tolerant of varying humidity levels than some other carnivorous plants. An ambient humidity of 50-75% is typically sufficient. Consistent high humidity helps ensure their sticky traps remain effective and the plants do not dry out prematurely.
Feeding
Pygmy sundews are adept at catching their own prey, primarily small insects like gnats and fruit flies, when grown outdoors or in environments with insect activity. The sticky mucilage on their leaves effectively traps prey, which the plant digests to absorb nutrients. For indoor plants without sufficient insects, occasional supplemental feeding can be beneficial.
Small live insects, such as flightless fruit flies, or finely crushed fish food flakes can be placed directly onto a few of the plant’s sticky tentacles. Feeding is not strictly necessary if the plant is catching insects, as overfeeding can lead to fungal issues or a decline in plant health. A feeding frequency of every 2-3 weeks, or as needed based on observed insect capture, is generally appropriate.
Propagating Pygmy Sundews
The most common method for propagating pygmy sundews is through gemmae. These tiny, disc-shaped structures are typically produced in autumn and winter as daylight hours shorten and temperatures cool. Each gemma is a miniature plantlet, genetically identical to the parent, ready to sprout when conditions are favorable.
To propagate using gemmae, carefully collect them from the center of the rosette once mature and easily dislodged. Gently coax them off the plant with a toothpick or fine paintbrush. Immediately sow the gemmae by lightly scattering them on the surface of a moist, suitable growing medium, such as a peat and sand mix, in a shallow pot.
Maintain high humidity around the newly sown gemmae by covering the pot with a clear dome or plastic wrap, and keep the substrate consistently moist. Bright, indirect light and stable temperatures encourage rapid germination, with tiny plantlets often emerging within a week. Gemmae-grown plants mature much faster than those grown from seed, often reaching flowering size within a few months. While pygmy sundews produce flowers and can set seed, seed propagation is generally more challenging and time-consuming, making gemmae the preferred method.
Common Problems and Troubleshooting
A frequent issue with pygmy sundews is a lack of dew on their leaves, indicating environmental problems. Insufficient light is a primary cause, as strong illumination is necessary for the plant to produce its sticky mucilage. Increasing light intensity, through natural sunlight or artificial grow lights, often resolves this.
Low humidity can also contribute to a lack of dew, causing the plant to dry out too quickly. While pygmy sundews are somewhat tolerant, maintaining moderate to high ambient humidity can improve dew production. Improper watering, particularly allowing the growing medium to dry out, negatively impacts dew formation and plant health. Ensure the substrate remains consistently moist, using only appropriate water types.
Stunted growth or a sudden decline in health often points to issues with the growing medium or water quality. Using tap water with high mineral content or nutrient-rich soil mixes can lead to chemical burn or nutrient toxicity. Repotting the plant into a fresh, appropriate carnivorous plant mix and switching to distilled or RO water can help it recover. Observing the plant’s response to environmental adjustments is crucial for troubleshooting.