2026 seeds
Picture 1 = actual seeds packed
Common Name:
Natal Sundew
Scientific Name:
Drosera natalensis
Description
Drosera natalensis, commonly known as the Natal sundew, is an attractive carnivorous plant native to southern Africa. It forms a rosette of spoon-shaped leaves covered in glistening, sticky tentacles that capture and digest small insects. Bright light encourages reddish coloration, while mature plants produce delicate flowers on tall stalks. This rewarding species is suitable for beginners and experienced carnivorous plant growers alike.
Light
Provide bright light and approximately 4–6 hours or more of direct sunlight daily, gradually acclimating plants to stronger conditions.
Strong light encourages compact growth, red coloration, and abundant dew.
Indoors, provide 12–14 hours of full-spectrum grow lighting daily.
Temperature
Ideal daytime temperatures: 18–30°C.
Moderate nighttime cooling is beneficial.
Protect plants from frost and prolonged temperatures below 5°C.
Humidity
Moderate to high humidity of approximately 50–80% is suitable.
Maintain good airflow to reduce fungal growth, particularly around seedlings.
Water
Use only rainwater, distilled water, or reverse osmosis (RO) water.
Keep the growing medium consistently moist using the tray method, with approximately 1–2 cm of water in the tray during active growth.
Never allow the medium to dry out completely. Reduce standing water during cooler periods if evaporation slows.
Soil
Use a nutrient-poor carnivorous plant mix.
A 1:1 mixture of peat moss and perlite or silica sand provides suitable moisture retention and drainage.
Sow seeds on the surface of moist soil. Do not cover them, as light helps germination.
Germination
Sow seeds on moist soil and gently press them into contact with the surface.
Provide bright light, consistent moisture, and temperatures around 20–25°C.
Germination may take several weeks to a few months, depending on seed freshness and storage.
Some seed batches may benefit from warm, moist stratification, although requirements vary.
Avoid transplanting seedlings until they have developed several true leaves.
Feeding
Mature plants catch small insects naturally.
Indoor plants may occasionally be fed tiny insects, such as fungus gnats or fruit flies.
Do not feed very young seedlings or offer large insects.
Potting and Repotting
Repot every 1–2 years, or when the growing medium breaks down.
Use fresh carnivorous plant soil and handle the roots gently.
Avoid unnecessary root disturbance.
Pruning
Remove dead leaves as needed.
Remove flower stalks after flowering unless you wish to collect seeds.
Pests and Diseases
Inspect occasionally for aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs.
Good airflow and appropriate spacing help prevent fungal growth and algae around seedlings.
Dormancy
Drosera natalensis generally does not require a strict winter dormancy.
Growth may slow in cooler weather. Maintain suitable light and moisture, and protect plants from frost.
Propagation
Easily propagated from seed.
Root or leaf cuttings may also succeed under suitable conditions.
Allow seed capsules to mature before harvesting seeds.
Caution
Never use conventional plant fertilisers in the growing medium. Fertiliser salts can damage or kill carnivorous plants.
Always use low-mineral water and nutrient-poor soil.
Growing Tip
Sow Drosera natalensis seeds on the surface of moist carnivorous plant soil and provide bright light, warmth, and consistent moisture. Be patient, as germination times vary. With suitable care, seedlings will develop into attractive, dew-covered rosettes.