Drosera spatulata - Spoonleaf sundew

Drosera spatulata, also known as the spoon-leaved sundew, is a versatile and rosette-forming carnivorous plant with spoon-shaped leaves. The specific epithet "spatulata" is derived from the Latin word for "spatula-shaped," referring to the form of its leaves. This sundew species has a wide distribution and is naturally found throughout Southeast Asia, southern China, Japan, Micronesia, Papua New Guinea, eastern Australia, Tasmania, and New Zealand. Variations of this species are often identified by the localities in which they are found.Drosera spatulata does not form hibernacula in winter and can be easily cultivated using the same methods as Drosera capensis. However, it is worth noting that carnivorous plant enthusiasts often consider D. spatulata to be a weed due to its hardiness and prolific seed production when it flowers. The seeds have a tendency to germinate effortlessly, resulting in the emergence of small plants in nearby pots.This variable perennial plant produces small rosettes with numerous spathulate leaves, typically measuring about 1.6 inches (4 cm) in diameter. Each leaf is connected to the central rosette by a narrow petiole that is glandular only on the upper half and approximately 0.3 inches (8 mm) long. The individual leaf laminae are usually around 0.2 inches (5 mm) long and 0.16 inches (4 mm) wide. In early summer, the plants produce erect scapes that reach a height of 3.1 inches (8 cm), bearing approximately six small white or pink flowers on each one-sided racemose inflorescence. Each flower can measure up to 0.24 inches (6 mm) across.Drosera spatulata thrives in full sun and benefits from sitting in a dish of water with 2 inches of water. Its carnivorous nature makes it excellent at catching flying insects, making it a valuable addition to gardens aiming to reduce reliance on chemical pesticides.Size guide:Small plants come in a 3" potMedium plants come in a 4" potLarge plants will come in a 5" pot