About
This insectivorous perennial forming rosettes to 30cm wide. White flowers to 1cm across are produced on slender stems above the foliage in early summer. The leaves are formed of hinged lobes to 6cm long, with 15-20 stiff spines at the margins; these interlock when the trap closes. The traps are yellow-green on the outside and flushed burgundy on the inside.
About the genus
Dionaea are a genus of carniverous plants known commonly as Venus Flytrap. They catch insects and arachnids as prey via tiny hairs situated on the inner surface of their leaves
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeLoam
Soil pHAcid
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Poorly-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH3
Plant details
Plant typeConservatory Greenhouse, Houseplants
HabitMatforming
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesHouseplants, Patio and container plants
Care notes
CultivationGrow in spent, peat-free ericaceous or specialist carnivorous plant compost in a sunny position, either under glass or in a bog garden. If pot grown, stand the containers in trays of rain water to keep the growing medium wet. Water only with soft (ideally rain) water; fertilising is unnecessary. See Dionaea and carnivorous plant cultivation for further information
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by sowing seed at 10-13°C in spring; place the container in a water tray to keep the growing medium moist. Germination is often very slow. Divide in spring, or take leaf cuttings in late spring or early summer
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free