Plant Profile: Drosera rotundifolia

The Roundleaf Sundew is a native carnivorous perennial that thrives in the wet, boggy regions of mountainous areas and coastal plains. In North Carolina, it can be found along the Little River in the sandhills and throughout the western mountains. This plant typically reaches heights of 2 to 10 inches and features a shallow root system. Its round leaves lie flat against the ground, while the flowering stalk unfurls to showcase small, white blooms with five petals during the summer months.

The leaves are coated with a sticky substance that captures small prey. Glands located on stalks near the leaf edges gradually bend inward, effectively securing the trapped organism and directing it toward the digestive glands without stalks. This adaptation enables the Roundleaf Sundew to thrive in nutrient-deficient environments.

Preferring acidic, boggy habitats, this plant flourishes in full sun to partial shade. It can be cultivated in bog gardens or terrariums, although it requires a period of dormancy to thrive. The Roundleaf Sundew performs best in cooler summer climates.