Oblong-Leaved Sundew

(Drosera intermedia)

Oblong-Leaved Sundew (Drosera intermedia)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Drosera intermedia, commonly known as the Oblong-leaved Sundew, is a perennial herbaceous carnivorous plant native to acidic wetlands such as bogs, fens, and swamps in Europe, southeastern Canada, the eastern United States, Cuba, and northern South America. It typically forms a basal rosette of narrow, spatulate leaves that are covered with sticky, glandular hairs designed to attract, capture, and digest insects, supplementing its nutrient intake from the nutrient-poor soils of its native habitat. The Oblong-leaved Sundew blooms from June to August, producing small, white to pinkish flowers that are held above the foliage on slender, erect stalks. The flowers are modest in size but can be quite showy when viewed up close.

This plant is valued for its unique insect-trapping mechanism and is often grown by carnivorous plant enthusiasts. It requires a consistently moist or wet environment, mimicking its natural boggy habitat, and thrives in full sun to partial shade. The soil should be acidic and low in nutrients, often a mix of peat and sand is used in cultivation. While it is not commonly used in traditional garden settings, it can be a fascinating addition to a bog garden or terrarium. Care should be taken to avoid fertilizing and to use rainwater or distilled water, as tap water can be harmful. The Oblong-leaved Sundew is generally free from diseases but can be sensitive to improper watering and poor air circulation.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.1-0.25 feet
  • Width: 0.1-0.25 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow, Moderate
  • Flower Color: Pink, White
  • Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: High
  • Drainage: Standing

Common Uses

Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Acidic wetlands such as bogs, fens, and swamps

Other Names

Common Names: Sundew, Oblong-leaved sundew, Oblong-Leaf Sundew, Spatulate-Leaved Sundew, Spoonleaf Sundew

Scientific Names: , Drosera intermedia, Drosera americana, Drosera capillaris subsp. brasiliensis, Drosera capillaris var. brasiliensis, Drosera foliosa, Drosera intermedia f. corymbosa, Drosera intermedia f. elatior, Drosera intermedia f. gracilis, Drosera intermedia f. intermedia

GBIF Accepted Name: