The famous carnivorous plant whose hinged, spine-fringed traps snap shut on insects that brush their trigger hairs. A fascinating bog plant for a sunny windowsill, grown in pure peat with rainwater.
At a glance
- Plant type: Perennial
- Mature size: 12 cm H × 12 cm W
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: consistently moist soil
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: moderate maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Venus Flytrap
Dionaea muscipula is a slow-growing perennial in the Droseraceae family. It reaches around 12 cm tall and 12 cm wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. White flowers appear in spring.
Where to grow Venus Flytrap
Venus Flytrap suits warm-temperate and subtropical climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters. It also is a sought-after collector's plant.
Soil & planting
Venus Flytrap does best in acidic soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Venus Flytrap is consistently moist soil. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Venus Flytrap after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is moderate maintenance.
Using Venus Flytrap in the garden
Venus Flytrap earns its place for pots and courtyard containers and a feature or specimen planting. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Venus Flytrap with other plants that enjoy the same consistently moist soil and warm-temperate climate. Group three or five together for impact rather than dotting single plants through the garden.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Venus Flytrap
Plant Sale lists Venus Flytrap as potted plants. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it is available.