2026 seeds
Picture 1 = actual seeds packed
 
Common Name:
Collins' Sundew
Scientific Name:
Drosera collinsiae
 
Description:
Drosera collinsiae is an attractive carnivorous plant native to South Africa and Eswatini. It forms an elegant rosette of broad, spoon-shaped leaves covered in glistening sticky tentacles that trap and digest small insects. This species is well known for its vigorous growth, attractive reddish coloration in bright light, and beautiful pink flowers that appear on tall flower stalks. Growing Drosera collinsiae from seed is an enjoyable and rewarding way to experience the fascinating life cycle of this easy-to-grow sundew.
 
Light
Place your Drosera collinsiae in bright, indirect light or provide 4–6 hours of gentle direct morning sunlight.
Strong lighting encourages compact growth and vibrant red coloration.
If growing indoors, provide 12–14 hours of LED or fluorescent grow lighting each day.
 
Temperature
Ideal daytime temperatures are 18–28°C (64–82°F).
Night temperatures between 10–18°C (50–64°F) are beneficial.
Avoid prolonged exposure to temperatures below 5°C (41°F).
 
Humidity
Drosera collinsiae thrives in moderate to high humidity (40–80%).
Higher humidity is especially beneficial for seedlings and young plants.
Ensure adequate airflow to reduce the risk of fungal diseases.
 
Water
Use only rainwater, distilled water, or reverse osmosis (RO) water.
Never use tap water unless it has a very low mineral content.
Keep the growing medium consistently moist using the tray method, allowing the pot to stand in 1–2 cm of water during active growth.
Do not allow the growing medium to dry out completely.
 
Soil
Sow seeds on the surface of a moist carnivorous plant growing mix.
A 1:1 mixture of peat moss and perlite or silica sand provides ideal drainage and acidity.
Do not cover the seeds, as they require light to germinate.
 
Germination
Seeds generally germinate within 2–6 weeks, although some may take longer.
Maintain consistently moist soil, bright light, and warm temperatures during germination.
Avoid transplanting seedlings until they have developed several mature leaves.
 
Feeding
Mature plants readily capture small insects on their own.
Indoor-grown plants may occasionally be fed tiny insects such as fungus gnats or fruit flies.
Avoid feeding seedlings until they are well established.
Never feed large insects that could damage the leaves.
 
Potting and Repotting
Seedlings can remain in their original pot until they become crowded.
Repot every 1–2 years using fresh carnivorous plant soil.
Handle the delicate roots carefully during repotting.
 
Pruning
Remove old or dead leaves as they naturally die back.
Flower stalks may be removed after flowering unless seed production is desired.
 
Pests and Diseases
Occasionally inspect plants for aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs.
Seedlings can be susceptible to algae or fungal growth if humidity is high and airflow is poor.
Maintain good ventilation and avoid overcrowding.
 
Dormancy
Drosera collinsiae does not require a true winter dormancy.
Growth may slow during cooler weather, but healthy plants generally remain active year-round when provided with suitable light and moisture.
 
Propagation
Drosera collinsiae is easily propagated from seed.
Mature plants may also be propagated from root cuttings and leaf cuttings under suitable conditions.
 
Caution
Do not fertilize Drosera collinsiae with conventional plant fertilizers. These plants obtain their nutrients from captured insects, and fertilizers can quickly damage or kill them.
Always use low-mineral water to prevent harmful salt build-up in the growing medium.
 
Growing Tip
Fresh Drosera collinsiae seeds germinate most successfully when sown on the surface of moist carnivorous plant soil soon after harvest. Provide bright light, consistently moist conditions, and warm temperatures. With proper care, tiny seedlings will soon develop into vigorous rosettes covered in sparkling dew, making this one of the most rewarding South African sundews to grow from seed.