Drosera scorpioides, commonly called the shaggy sundew, is a pygmy sundew native to the Jarrah Forest region and southern coasts of Southwest Australia. Notable for its unusually large size relative to other pygmy sundews, D. scorpioides can produce rosettes measuring up to two inches in diameter and specimens may attain a height of up to 100 millimeters (approximately 3.9 inches). The species is found on white sand and clay, near swamps, on sand ridges, and is associated with laterite. The flowers are pink and white, appearing sometime between August and October. Depending on the form, D. scorpioides can be expected to live up to seven years.
Drosera scorpioides has moderate resistance to disease and needs a high-humidity environment. If ventilation is poor, however, it can be prone to rot. The plant’s care level is considered difficult because it requires continuous humidification to maintain high humidity. Drosera scorpioides is also very susceptible to rot when the environment lacks proper ventilation and becomes too hot. Drosera scorpioides is best suited to more experienced growers who can provide an appropriate growing environment.
How to keep Drosera Scorpioides.
Light
Drosera scorpioides is native to habitats with plentiful sunlight, such as open bogs and sunny wetlands. It prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial sun.
Temperature
Drosera scorpioides prefers moderate temperatures, similar to those most people find comfortable. It does best in conditions that are not excessively hot or too cold. The main problem with high temperatures is the risk of sunburn, so providing some shade in summer is advisable to prevent excessive heat. When temperatures fall, Drosera scorpioides becomes dormant. If continuous growth is wanted, higher temperatures must be kept during the winter. Frost can damage the plant and should be avoided.
Pot & Repot
When repotting Drosera scorpioides, select a pot 1-2 inches (2.5–5.1 cm) larger that provides ample drainage. Use a well-draining potting mix. Repot in spring or fall, making sure the root ball sits slightly below the rim of the flower pot. Water thoroughly after repotting and place the plant in a warm spot with indirect sunlight.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Herb
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Drosera
- Family
- Droseraceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 10-11
- Mature Height
- 15 cm
- Mature Spread
- 3 cm to 6 cm
- Leaf Color
- Green, Red
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Color
- White, Pink, Lavender
- Flower Size
- 1.02 cm to 1.52 cm
- Bloom Time
- Summer
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall
- Native Area
- Australia
