Drosera spatulata is a species of sundew, a carnivorous plant known for its ability to capture and digest insects.
Appearance: It typically forms small rosettes of leaves that are spatula-shaped, giving rise to its common name "spatulate sundew." The leaves can vary in size but generally range from 2 to 5 centimeters (about 0.8 to 2 inches) in length. Each leaf is covered with glandular hairs that produce sticky mucilage droplets, which attract and trap insects.
Habitat: Drosera spatulata is native to a wide range of locations across Southeast Asia, including countries like Australia, New Zealand, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea. It thrives in humid, nutrient-poor environments such as bogs, marshes, and wetlands.
Trapping Mechanism: Similar to other sundews, Drosera spatulata uses its sticky glandular hairs to capture small insects and arthropods. When an insect lands on a leaf and becomes stuck in the mucilage, the leaf slowly curls around the prey, ensuring it remains trapped. Enzymes are then secreted to digest the insect, allowing the plant to absorb essential nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus.
Cultivation: In cultivation, Drosera spatulata is popular among carnivorous plant enthusiasts for its ease of care and attractive appearance. It requires a growing medium that is low in nutrients, such as a mix of sphagnum moss and perlite, and prefers bright, indirect sunlight or artificial grow lights. It should be kept moist with distilled or rainwater to mimic its natural habitat.
Varieties: There are several recognized varieties of Drosera spatulata, including Drosera spatulata var. bakoensis and Drosera spatulata var. lovellae, each with slight variations in leaf shape and coloration.