| |
Drosera natalensis is a small, interesting Sundew plant
of South Africa, from the province of Natal. It is very
easy to grow. A very popular rosette forming Sundew.
The rosettes are flat and about 4 cm across. The leaves
are spoon-shaped. The upper surface of the light green
leaves, have a covering of sticky tentacles which are a
dark pink or brilliant red.
The visiting insects are attracted to the leaves by the
glistening tips of the hairs. The leaves, curl around any
captured prey like a fist. Once caught the insect is
digested by the sticky digestive fluid poured out by the
plant. This unique way of obtaining nitrogenous food
enables these plants to live in soils poor in available
nitrogen.
Hardiness zones 8-10, (1°C/35°F, -10°C/15°F) in
Winter. They should be grown in bright light, but with
protection from full midday sun. In cloudy coastal areas,
artificial light is preferable. If the plant gets enough
light, it will produce very nice redder rosettes.
Temperatures should be kept between (20°C/25°C, 68°F/76°F).
They grow well in a standard peat moss/sand which can be
anything from 50% to 70% peat moss. There's no need to
fertilize, as the plant relies on insects for food. The
humidity should be between 60-80%.
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. This one prefers slightly drier
conditions than most, so it's advisable to let the water
tray dry out before refilling. 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.
|
|
