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Drosera Filiformis (Drosera filiformis)

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Drosera Filiformis

Intermediate

Drosera filiformis

A North American sundew with thread-like long leaves, stunningly beautiful when glistening with dew.

Growing Difficulty
Intermediate
Temperature
10〜30℃
Lifespan
5+ years
Size
15-30cm
Humidity
60〜90%
Watering
Insects (auto-capture)

About

Drosera filiformis, the thread-leaved sundew, is native to the coastal plain wetlands of eastern North America, from New Jersey south to Florida, inhabiting moist, sandy, open bogs. Its long, erect, thread-like (filiform) leaves reach 15–30 cm in height and are densely clothed in red, glistening mucilaginous tentacles along their entire length—a spectacle of beauty when caught in morning light. Small pink flowers are produced on tall scapes from spring through autumn. The species is cold-hardy and enters a mandatory winter dormancy, dying back to a compact resting bud (hibernaculum) that overwinters in the soil. Cultivation requires tray watering with pure or rainwater, nutrient-poor sphagnum or peat-perlite media, and full direct sunlight.

Lifespan of the Drosera Filiformis

The Drosera Filiformis lives 5+ years.

Size of the Drosera Filiformis

The Drosera Filiformis grows to 15-30cm.

Temperature & humidity for the Drosera Filiformis

A cool winter rest at around 5°C is essential for the plant's long-term health.

Basic Info

Origin

Eastern North American coastal plain (New Jersey to Florida), moist sandy bogs and wetlands

Lifespan

5+ years

Size

15-30cm

Temperature

10〜30℃

Humidity

60〜90%

Watering & Fertilizer

Insects (auto-capture)

Growing Tips

Light & Placement

It loves strong direct sun, so grow it outdoors in a sunny spot. Its upright leaves reach 15-30 cm tall.

Watering

Keep the medium constantly moist with tray watering, using purified water or rainwater. Do not let it dry out even during dormancy.

Temperature & Overwintering

It is very cold hardy; in winter the leaves die back and it forms a hibernaculum. A cold rest at around 5°C in winter is necessary.

Soil & Repotting

Plant in moist sphagnum alone or a peat moss and perlite mix. Repotting is easiest while it is still a hibernaculum at the end of dormancy.

Dormancy Care

While dormant as a hibernaculum, expose it to cold and keep the medium moist. Keeping it warm prevents dormancy and weakens the plant.

CarnivorousSundewThreadBeautiful

Drosera Filiformis FAQ

QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Drosera Filiformis?
A

Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.

QWhat is the lifespan of Drosera Filiformis?
A

The average lifespan of Drosera Filiformis is 5+ years. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.

QHow large does Drosera Filiformis get?
A

The mature size of Drosera Filiformis is 15-30cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.

QHow should I water and fertilize Drosera Filiformis?
A

Drosera Filiformis: watering & fertilizer — Insects (auto-capture). Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.

QWhat is the typical price for Drosera Filiformis?
A

The price of Drosera Filiformis varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.

Last updated: August 31, 2026

References & Sources

Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team

The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.

Primary sources

Taxonomy & Authority

Accepted name: Drosera filiformis Raf.

Synonyms: Filicirna filiformis (Raf.) Raf., Drosera filiformis var. typica E.Reid

Authority databases: GBIF · POWO · ICPS cultivar registration (International Carnivorous Plant Society)

Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.

Regulations & Conservation Status

Not CITES-listed

This genus is not listed in CITES Appendices (among carnivorous plants, only Nepenthes/Sarracenia/Dionaea are subject to CITES).

Sources: CITES Appendices (carnivorous plants) - ICPS/Barry Rice / CITES & Carnivorous Plant Checklist (RBG Kew)

Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.

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