Care Sheet for Drosera binata multifida 'All Red' Form
 
Drosera binata multifida 'All Red', also known as the Staghorn forked-leaf sundew, is a striking carnivorous plant distinguished by its intricately forked leaves and deep red coloration. This plant is native to Australia and New Zealand, and it's particularly captivating for its ability to catch small insects with its sticky, forked leaves. This variety thrives in bright light, which enhances its red pigmentation, and is a robust grower both as a house plant and in terrarium environments.
General Information
Common Name: Staghorn Forked-leaf Sundew (All Red Form)
Origin: Australia, New Zealand
Growth Form: Multi-forked leaves with long, slender stems that branch into two or more divisions.
Size: Leaves can reach up to 30 cm (12 inches) long, with multiple divisions per leaf.
House Plant Care
1. Light Requirements
Ideal Light: Full sun or very bright indirect light for 6-8 hours daily. The red coloration intensifies with strong light exposure.
Artificial Light: If grown indoors, use high-intensity grow lights (full spectrum) for about 12-16 hours daily to maintain its vibrant red color.
Shade Tolerance: While it can tolerate lower light, this will result in greener leaves and reduced dew production.
2. Watering
Water Method: Use the tray method, where the pot sits in a shallow tray filled with distilled, rainwater, or reverse osmosis water.
Moisture Level: Keep the soil consistently damp. Never allow the soil to dry out completely, but avoid waterlogging.
Water Quality: Only use mineral-free water, as this species is highly sensitive to minerals and salts.
3. Humidity
Humidity Level: Moderate to high humidity (50-80%) is ideal for optimal dew production. Drosera binata multifida 'All Red' is more forgiving of lower humidity than some other sundews but benefits from higher humidity for healthier growth.
Indoor Humidity Control: If growing indoors in a drier environment, consider using a humidity tray or a humidifier to maintain the required levels.
4. Temperature
Optimal Temperature Range: 60-85°F (16-29°C) during the day, with cooler nights around 50-60°F (10-16°C).
Tolerance: This sundew can tolerate brief exposure to lower temperatures but is not frost-hardy. Avoid freezing conditions.
5. Soil
Preferred Soil Mix: A 1:1 mix of sphagnum peat moss and perlite or silica sand is ideal. Avoid nutrient-rich soils, as they can damage the plant.
Pot Size: A medium-sized, deep pot with drainage holes will accommodate its long roots and support healthy growth.
6. Feeding
Natural Diet: Drosera binata multifida 'All Red' captures insects like gnats, flies, and other small bugs with its sticky leaves. Outdoors, it will catch its own prey.
Manual Feeding: If grown indoors or in a low-insect environment, you can supplement its diet with live or freeze-dried insects like bloodworms. Feed sparingly, once every 2-3 weeks.
Fertilizers: Do not use fertilizers, as they can harm the plant. It obtains nutrients from trapped insects.
7. Dormancy
Winter Dormancy: In cooler climates, Drosera binata multifida will enter a dormancy period during the winter. The leaves will die back, and the plant will regrow in the spring. Reduce watering during dormancy but ensure the soil remains slightly damp.
Non-Dormant Growth: In warmer, tropical climates, it may grow year-round without a pronounced dormancy period.
 
Terrarium Care
Ideal for large terrariums
1. Lighting
Light Setup: Provide bright artificial lighting, such as LED grow lights or fluorescent bulbs for 12-14 hours daily. The plant needs plenty of light to maintain its red coloration.
Indirect Natural Light: If grown in a terrarium near a window, ensure it receives bright but indirect light to prevent overheating.
2. Humidity
High Humidity: A closed or semi-closed terrarium will naturally maintain high humidity, ideal for Drosera binata multifida 'All Red'. Aim for humidity levels between 60-80%.
Ventilation: Ensure some air circulation in the terrarium to prevent mold or mildew buildup. Open the terrarium lid occasionally to allow fresh air in.
3. Temperature
Consistent Warmth: Keep the terrarium's temperature between 65-80°F (18-27°C). Terrariums can overheat if placed in direct sunlight, so avoid placing them in bright, direct light without proper ventilation.
4. Watering in Terrarium
Watering Method: Mist the substrate with distilled or rainwater regularly to keep the soil damp but not waterlogged. Alternatively, place a shallow water tray at the bottom of the terrarium.
Water Quality: As with pot culture, only use mineral-free water to prevent damage to the plant.
5. Substrate
Soil Mix: Use the same 1:1 sphagnum peat moss and perlite or sand mix for good drainage and moisture retention. In a terrarium, you can add a drainage layer of gravel or charcoal beneath the substrate.
Drainage: Proper drainage is important, so include a mesh barrier between the drainage layer and soil to prevent soggy conditions at the roots.
6. Feeding in Terrarium
Prey Availability: Release small insects like fruit flies into the terrarium if natural prey is scarce.
Manual Feeding: As with potted plants, you can feed it freeze-dried or live insects every few weeks if necessary.
 
Additional Tips
Pruning: Regularly remove dead leaves to prevent mold growth, especially in high-humidity environments like terrariums.
Repotting: Repot every 1-2 years to refresh the soil and provide more space for root growth.
Pests: Monitor for pests like aphids or spider mites. Use insecticidal soap sparingly, as the plant can be sensitive to chemicals.
 
By following these care instructions, Drosera binata multifida 'All Red' will flourish, displaying its vibrant red foliage and intricate forked leaves. Whether grown in a pot or terrarium, this sundew will be a fascinating and visually striking addition to your collection!