Drosera pulchella Description:
Drosera pulchella is a charming carnivorous plant native to southwestern Australia. It belongs to the pygmy sundew group, known for its small size and intricate beauty. The plant forms a compact rosette of spoon-shaped leaves, typically only a few centimeters in diameter. These leaves are covered in sticky, glandular trichomes that glisten like dewdrops, giving the plant a jewel-like appearance. The trichomes trap and digest small insects, providing essential nutrients in the nutrient-poor environments where it thrives.
The flowers of Drosera pulchella are delicate and often pink or white, appearing on slender stalks above the foliage. The plant produces gemmae (asexual reproductive bodies) in late fall to early winter, which can be used to propagate new plants.
Care Sheet for Drosera pulchella:
Light:
Optimal: Full sun or bright, indirect light.
Indoor: Place near a sunny window or under strong grow lights.
Outdoor: Ensure it receives plenty of sunlight, with some protection from the harshest midday rays.
Water:
Medium: Distilled water, rainwater, or reverse osmosis water.
Method: Keep the soil consistently moist by setting the pot in a tray of water, but do not let the plant sit in standing water for extended periods.
Humidity: Requires moderate to high humidity.
Temperature:
Optimal Range: 60-80°F (15-27°C).
Tolerance: Can tolerate cooler temperatures down to around 40°F (4°C) but does best in warmer conditions.
Dormancy: Does not require a true dormancy, though growth may slow during cooler months.
Soil:
Medium: A mix of sphagnum moss and perlite or silica sand (1:1 ratio).
pH: Acidic, around 4.5-5.5.
Feeding:
Insects: Feed small insects like gnats or fruit flies if grown indoors where natural prey is scarce.
Frequency: Infrequent feeding is fine, as they can go without additional feeding if they catch their own prey.
Potting:
Container: Use a small pot with good drainage; plastic or glazed ceramic is preferable.
Repotting: NOT RECOMENDED!!! The chances of losses is massive.
Propagation:
Gemmae: The primary method of propagation; collect gemmae in fall/winter and place them on moist soil to grow new plants.
Pests/Diseases:
Common Issues: Aphids, fungal infections, and root rot.
Prevention: Ensure good air circulation and avoid overwatering. Keep the environment clean and check regularly for pests.
Special Notes:
Seasonal Care: In winter, growth may slow down, but the plant should still be kept in bright light and moist conditions. Gemmae production is a sign the plant is entering its reproductive phase, and this is an excellent time to propagate.
This care guide should help you successfully grow and maintain Drosera pulchella, showcasing its unique beauty in your collection.