Drosera pulchella
About
*Drosera pulchella* is a small, low-growing pygmy sundew notable for its sticky, tentacle-like leaf projections that lure and trap insects. It is a popular choice for terrariums and indoor collections due to its compact growth habit.
Field notes
Morphology
The plant is low to the ground with leaves surrounding a central bud. The leaf ends feature tentacle-like projections that produce a sticky, mucus-like substance. The plant also produces white, pink, yellow, orange, or red flowers.
Distribution & habitat
Western Australia, specifically in areas with a moderate Mediterranean climate.
Ecology
The plant uses a sweet-smelling secretion to lure insects to the sticky tentacles. Once trapped, the tentacles contract to cover the prey, which either dies of exhaustion or suffocation due to the mucus clogging its spiracles. It has developed extensive roots to cope with the Australian dry season and poor soil quality.
Cultivation notes
These tiny plants are primarily used for terrariums and indoor plants where they can be maintained and grown in stable environments.
Conservation
Assessed as Least Concern (LC) on the IUCN Red List.
Habitat
- Altitude
- Not recorded
- Altitude class
- —
- Native to
- Australia
Cultivation
- Difficulty
- intermediate