🌿 Drosera trinervia Care Sheet
South African Rosette Sundew
 
🏷 Overview
Drosera trinervia is a beautiful, compact sundew native to the Cape region of South Africa. It forms tight rosettes of reddish-green leaves adorned with glistening mucilage-tipped tentacles that trap insects. Known for its hardiness and striking appearance, it’s a rewarding carnivorous plant for both beginners and collectors.
 
☀️ Light Requirements
Full sun to bright light is essential.
Grows well outdoors in sunny conditions or under strong grow lights (12–14 hours/day).
In terrariums, place close to light source; east- or north-facing windows can work well.
 
🌡 Temperature
Optimal range: 15°C – 28°C
Tolerates occasional dips to 5°C and highs up to 35°C with good airflow.
No dormancy required; grows year-round in mild conditions.
 
💧 Watering
Keep soil consistently moist, never dry.
Use rainwater, distilled, or reverse osmosis water.
Best grown in a tray of water ~1–2 cm deep. Allow occasional drying of the tray to prevent stagnation.
 
🌱 Substrate
Standard mix: 1 part peat moss : 1 part perlite or silica sand.
Avoid fertilizers and nutrient-rich soils.
Optional top-dressing with live sphagnum or sand for aesthetics and humidity control.
 
🌬 Humidity & Airflow
Thrives in moderate to high humidity (50–90%).
Excellent candidate for open or ventilated terrariums.
Ensure some air circulation to avoid mold or algae buildup.
 
🌼 Feeding
Feeds on small insects like fruit flies, gnats, and springtails.
Supplement once every few weeks if not outdoors.
Avoid overfeeding; one insect per leaf is sufficient.
 
🌿 Propagation
Easily propagated from leaf cuttings in moist sphagnum or water.
Also spreads by seed—germinates readily in warm, humid conditions with good light.
Self-seeds in favorable conditions (especially outdoors).
 
📏 Size & Growth Habit
Forms a flat rosette ~3–6 cm in diameter.
Stays compact—perfect for small pots, trays, and terrariums.
Leaves often display a reddish tint under strong light.
 
💡 Terrarium Suitability
Excellent for closed or open terrariums with good light and ventilation.
Pair with other Cape sundews or small orchids that prefer similar conditions.
 
🧪 Fun Fact
Drosera trinervia is part of the Cape sundew complex, many of which hybridize easily. Its name refers to the three distinct veins on each leaf.