Scientific Name: Drosera communis

Also known as: Communis Sundew, South American Sundew

Origin: Native to South America—primarily Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay—where it grows in sunny, nutrient-poor wetlands and sandy soils.

Drosera communis is a fast-growing and hardy sundew species with upright, spoon-shaped leaves arranged along a central stem. The foliage is coated in glistening glandular hairs that secrete sticky mucilage to trap and digest insects. Its growth is vigorous, and it readily produces plantlets and flowers under good conditions. This species is ideal for beginners due to its tolerance of a wide range of conditions and its appetite for small flying pests like gnats and midges.

Growing Requirements

Light: Full sun to bright indirect light. Strong LED grow lights (5000–6500K) are also suitable indoors.

Water: Use only distilled, rainwater, or reverse osmosis (RO) water.

Watering:

• Active growth phase: Keep the soil consistently wet. This species enjoys sitting in a shallow tray of water.

• Dormant phase (if entered in cooler climates): Reduce watering slightly but do not allow to dry out.

Humidity: 50–90% preferred. Adapts well to open air or terrarium conditions with adequate light.

Temperature: Tolerant of a broad range—ideally between 15–30°C. Can tolerate brief dips to around 10°C.

Feeding: Feeds readily on small insects. Indoors, occasional feeding with crushed dried bloodworms, fish flakes, or flightless fruit flies is beneficial.

Dormancy: Typically does not require a true dormancy in warm climates. May slow down in cooler months.

What’s Included

Plant: Small 1-2cm and sometimes green in colour at this stage. With strong light, it will develop reddish dew-covered foliage. Grows to 10–15 cm tall at maturity, often with a basal clump of younger leaves.

Grow Cup: 5 cm clear plastic cup with ventilated lid to maintain humidity during transit. Top layer includes live or preserved sphagnum moss or sterile medium.

Medium: Nutrient-free carnivorous plant mix—peat-based, moisture-retentive, and airy.

Instructions: Step-by-step planting and care guide included.

Beginner Tips

• Keep soil wet at all times—this sundew prefers standing water conditions.

• Only use mineral-free water—tap water will cause root damage and salt buildup.

• Place in strong light—good lighting is key to producing dew and maintaining healthy colour.