Drosera pulchella 'Pretty Sundew' - Tissue Culture Plant
Drosera pulchella 'Pretty Sundew' - Tissue Culture Plant
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1-3 Plants in a Tissue Culture Cup
Drosera pulchella 'Red Flower Pretty Sundew' is a captivating and visually striking carnivorous plant, known for its compact size and vibrant colours. This exquisite plant forms a neat, rosette of small, spoon-shaped leaves that are densely covered with glistening, glandular trichomes. These sticky glands secrete a sparkling, dew-like substance that catches and reflects light, creating a mesmerising, jewel-like appearance.
The leaves of Drosera pulchella 'Red Flower Pretty Sundew' are typically a lush green, often highlighted with shades of red or pink, especially under bright light conditions. This vivid coloration enhances the plant's overall visual appeal, making it a standout specimen in any collection. The symmetrical rosette of leaves not only looks aesthetically pleasing but also efficiently traps insects, providing the plant with essential nutrients.
One of the most enchanting features of this sundew is its striking red flowers. During its blooming period, Drosera pulchella 'Red Flower Pretty Sundew' produces delicate, star-shaped flowers that are a brilliant red. These vibrant blossoms rise above the rosette on slender, upright stalks, adding a touch of elegance and contrasting beautifully with the dew-covered foliage.
Overall, Drosera pulchella 'Red Flower Pretty Sundew' is a visually stunning plant, combining the allure of its glittering, dew-coated leaves with the eye-catching beauty of its bright red flowers. This charming sundew is a must-have for any carnivorous plant enthusiast, offering both aesthetic appeal and fascinating insect-trapping capabilities in a compact and manageable form.
Care Instructions
- Light: Bright, indirect sunlight is ideal. Drosera thrives in well-lit areas but avoid direct, harsh sunlight to prevent leaf burn.
- Temperature: Maintain a warm environment, ideally between 65-80°F (18-27°C). Protect from extreme cold and drafts.
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Use distilled or rainwater to avoid mineral buildup, which can harm the plant. Water from the base by placing the pot in a shallow tray of water and allowing the soil to absorb moisture.
- Humidity: High humidity is preferred. Regular misting or using a humidity tray can help maintain the desired humidity levels.
- Feeding: No additional feeding is required as the plant obtains nutrients from trapped insects. Avoid fertilizing, as it can be harmful.
- Dormancy: Some species of Drosera undergo a dormancy period. During this time, reduce watering and keep the plant in a cooler environment, ideally between 50-60°F (10-15°C).
Planting Instructions
- Choose a Pot: Select a small, shallow pot with drainage holes. Drosera prefers a snug fit to encourage healthy root growth.
- Soil Mix: Use a well-draining, acidic mix. A combination of sphagnum moss and perlite or a specialised carnivorous plant soil works best.
- Planting: Gently remove the plant from its current container, being careful not to damage the roots. Place it in the center of the new pot and fill in around it with the soil mix. Lightly press the soil to secure the plant.
- Watering: After planting, water thoroughly from the base. Keep the soil moist but ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Hardening Tissue Culture Plants
- Initial Acclimation: Place the tissue culture container in a bright, indirect light location. Gradually increase the light exposure over a week.
- Humidity Control: Maintain high humidity initially by covering the plant with a clear plastic dome or placing it in a humid environment. Ensure good ventilation to prevent mold growth.
- Transition to Open Air: After a week, start exposing the plant to normal indoor humidity levels by removing the cover for a few hours each day. Gradually increase the exposure time over the next week.
- Potting: Once the plant is accustomed to normal indoor conditions, carefully transplant it into a small pot with a suitable soil mix, following the planting instructions above.
- Ongoing Care: Continue to provide bright, indirect light and keep the soil consistently moist. Monitor the plant for signs of stress and adjust care as needed.
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