Andrés González · CC BY-SA 4.0
About
Drosera capillaris, or the pink sundew, is a perennial, herbaceous carnivorous plant belonging to the Droseraceae family. It is characterized by its ability to thrive in nutrient-poor, acidic, and wet environments by capturing and digesting insects.
Field notes
Morphology
The plant forms prostrate to occasionally upright rosettes, reaching a diameter of up to 3 inches. Individual leaf blades are typically 0.5 to 1 inch long and are covered in glandular trichomes that excrete a sugary mucilage. The plant produces a one-sided raceme of 1 to 6 pink or rarely white blooms, with inflorescences reaching 4 to 14 inches in height. Flowers mature into an ovoid capsule about 1/8 inch long.
Distribution & habitat
It is native to a wide range of subtropical to tropical areas, including the southern United States, the Greater Antilles, western and southern Mexico, Central America, and northern South America. It thrives in seepage bogs, savannas, and grasslands, often associated with pine species. These habitats are characterized by being sunny, always wet, highly acidic, and nutrient deficient.
Ecology
As a carnivorous plant, *Drosera capillaris* captures small invertebrates using glandular trichomes that secrete sticky, sugary mucilage. These trapped insects are subsequently digested by enzymes, providing the plant with essential nutrients. It is fire-adapted, allowing it to proliferate after fires eliminate competing vegetation. It coexists with other carnivorous plants like *Sarracenia* and *Pingucula* in its natural habitat.
Cultivation notes
The plant is adapted to highly acidic, nutrient-deficient, and consistently wet environments. While specific cultivation details are not provided, its natural habitat suggests a need for high humidity and stable, moist conditions. It is noted for its ability to flourish in harsh, low-nourishment environments.
History & etymology
The species is known by the common name pink sundew. Its natural history is tied to its requirement for specific, nutrient-poor habitats. While the article does not detail its botanical discovery or etymology, it notes its taxonomic relationship within the Droseraceae family.
Conservation
The species is vulnerable in Virginia and critically imperiled in Arkansas, Maryland, and Tennessee. Its survival is threatened by pollution, human collection, and habitat disturbance. Maintaining its specific, nutrient-deficient environment is crucial for its continued existence.
Habitat
- Altitude
- 0–500 m
- Altitude Class
- lowland
- Native To
- United States, Mexico, Brazil
Cultivation
- Difficulty
- easy
- Temperature
- Day 22–30°C / Night 16–22°C
- Humidity
- 50–80%
- Notes
- Compact rosette with pink flowers. Widespread in the Americas.
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