A small carnivorous sundew, native to Australia, forming rosettes of spoon-shaped leaves studded with glistening sticky tentacles that trap tiny insects. An easy, charming bog plant for sunny pots.
At a glance
- Plant type: Perennial
- Mature size: 5 cm H × 6 cm W
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: consistently moist soil
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: moderate maintenance
- Origin: Australian native
About Spoonleaf Sundew
Botanically, Drosera spatulata is a moderate-growing perennial in the Droseraceae family, native to Australia. It reaches around 5 cm tall and 6 cm wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. Pink and white flowers appear in summer.
Where to grow Spoonleaf Sundew
Spoonleaf Sundew suits subtropical and warm-temperate climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot. It also is a sought-after collector's plant.
Soil & planting
Spoonleaf Sundew does best in acidic soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Spoonleaf Sundew prefers consistently moist soil. As an Australian native, feed it only with a low-phosphorus native fertiliser. New plantings need closer moisture checks in hot or windy weather, with watering tapered once strong new growth appears.
Pruning & care
Prune Spoonleaf Sundew after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is moderate maintenance.
Using Spoonleaf Sundew in the garden
Spoonleaf Sundew 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
Combine Spoonleaf Sundew with plants that share its preference for consistently moist soil and subtropical climate. Use an odd-numbered group where space allows, or repeat it at intervals through a longer bed. It combines naturally with other Australian natives in a habitat or water-wise garden.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Spoonleaf Sundew
Plant Sale lists Spoonleaf Sundew as potted plants. Current stock is confirmed manually, so register interest above before planning around a specific size.
