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Drosera filiformis, the Thread-leaved Sundew is a
temperate Drosera. It is native to United States and can
reach 5 to 10 inches in height. You can see it in bogs.
Actual leaf thickness is about 3/32 inch. The narrow
green leaves are upright and covered with hundreds of
tiny red hair-like structures, which are in turn covered
by a mucilage in which insects are trapped and then
digested. Enzymes are produced by the hairs which
dissolve the insect, which is then absorbed by the leaf.
Small, 3/8 to 1/2 inch across, lavender-pink flowers
appear on thin stalks, from April to September. Many
flowers are produced on each spike. Drosera filiformis
flowers come in several shades, including white.
Hardiness zone 7, (-15°C/5°F) in Winter. They should be
grown in bright light, but with protection from full
midday sun. In cloudy coastal areas, artificial light is
a required. They like cool temperatures. Temperatures
should be kept between 20°C/68°F, 25°C / 80°F. The
soil should be a mixture of 2 parts peat moss and part
sand, or 50/50. Drosera filiformis appreciates a tall pot.
They require seasons in order to survive long term. They
need a dormant period of about 3 months in the Winter.
The typical heated home is too warm in the Winter. During
the Winter the pots should not sit in water and need to
be kept cool. The entire planter may be moved to an area
where the temperature will remain at 8-10°C / 45-50°F.
It doesn't even mind a light frost. Protect from dry
freezing wind during deep freezes by covering the plant
with black plastic. At this time the compost should be
allowed to dry slightly. Uncover the plant when the deep
freeze and dry freezing wind is over.
Requires consistently moist soil; do not let dry out
between waterings. Water must be distilled or rain water
because they do not tolerate city or hard water. It is a
good idea to place a pie pan or large saucer, with about
an inch of water in it, under the pot. Elevate the pot by
placing pebbles under it so that the base of the pot is
barely in contact with the water, not submerged; the
growing medium must stay moist, but never soggy. This
will keep the humidity around the plant higher and it
will ensure that the plant has a constant source of
moisture. The humidity should be between 60-80%.
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