Drosera
Drosera spp.
Drosera, commonly known as sundews, are captivating carnivorous plants adorned with glistening, sticky droplets on their leaves. Their delicate flowers rise above jewel-like foliage, symbolizing allure, patience, and nature's deceptive beauty.
Droseraceae (Sundew family)
Late spring through summer (June-September)
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: sarracenias and asters also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Drosera represents one of the largest groups of carnivorous plants with at least 250 species worldwide. The genus name comes from the Greek word for "dewy," referring to the glistening droplets of sticky mucilage on their leaves that sparkle like dew in sunlight. These droplets, which appear beautiful and harmless, are actually deadly traps. Drosera symbolizes the concept that beauty can be dangerous, and that patience and adaptation lead to survival. They have fascinated naturalists for centuries, including Charles Darwin, who conducted extensive experiments on carnivorous plants.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to bright light; sun brings out red coloration in leaves
Water
Constantly moist to wet soil; never allow to dry out; use only rainwater or distilled water
Soil
Acidic, Nutrient-poor, Peat, Sandy, Constantly moist
Expert Growing Tips
Grow in peat moss and sand mix (50/50) or pure peat
Use only rainwater or distilled water; never tap water
Never fertilize; plants obtain nutrients from insects
Provide full sun for best red coloration
Do not manually feed or disturb the sticky tentacles
Some species require winter dormancy
Purchase only nursery-propagated plants
Can be propagated by seed, leaf cuttings, or division
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Bog gardens and wetland plantings
- Terrariums and containers
- Children's gardens and educational displays
- Native plant gardens
- Carnivorous plant collections
- Troughs and miniature gardens
Traditional Uses
- Historically used since the 12th century for coughs, bronchitis, whooping cough, and asthma
- Extracts have been studied for potential antimicrobial properties
- Early settlers used the red fluid as ink
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Drosera
what do sundew flowers symbolize
Sundew flowers symbolize allure and deceptive beauty, representing how something beautiful can also be dangerous. They embody patience, persistence, and nature's ingenious adaptations.
how do sundew plants catch insects
Sundews trap insects with sticky glandular hairs on their leaves. The glistening droplets attract prey, which becomes stuck. Nearby tentacles then curl around the insect, and digestive enzymes break it down.
are sundews easy to grow
Sundews are fairly easy to grow if you provide acidic, nutrient-poor soil, constant moisture, full sun, and mineral-free water. Many species are suitable for beginners in carnivorous plant cultivation.
can sundews kill insects quickly
Sundews can kill a trapped insect in about 15 minutes but may take several weeks to fully digest it. The trapping is slower than Venus flytraps but highly effective.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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Sarracenia
Sarracenia spp.
Sarracenia, also known as North American pitcher plants, are striking carnivorous plants with tubular, pitcher-shaped leaves that trap and digest insects. These fascinating plants symbolize adaptability, uniqueness, and survival.
Aster
Symphyotrichum spp. / Aster spp.
Asters are daisy-like perennials with star-shaped flower heads. They bring delightful color to late summer and fall gardens, symbolizing love, wisdom, and faith.
Waxflower
Chamelaucium uncinatum
Waxflower is an Australian native shrub with delicate, waxy star-shaped flowers and needle-like foliage. Popular in floral arrangements, it symbolizes lasting love, endurance, and cheerful resilience.