
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Drosera Filiformis
IntermediateDrosera filiformis
A North American sundew with thread-like long leaves, stunningly beautiful when glistening with dew.
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.
Drosera Filiformis FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Drosera Filiformis?
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?
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?
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?
Drosera Filiformis: watering & fertilizer — Insects (auto-capture). Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Drosera Filiformis?
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.
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
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.
Find listings for this species
Related Articles
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Explanation of how to grow carnivorous Drosera (Sundew). We introduce the characteristics of beginner-friendly varieties such as Spatulata, Capensis, and Adelae, methods for water tray watering, light conditions, overwintering, and propagation through leaf cuttings.
Drosera Propagation Guide — Leaf Cuttings, Division & Seeds
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Complete Guide to Sundew (Drosera) Cultivation | How to Bring Out the Beauty of Its Sticky Secretions
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Sundew Species and Cultivation Techniques | Bringing Out the Beauty of Mucilage
This article explains the characteristics of major sundew species and cultivation techniques (light, humidity, soil) for making mucilage shine beautifully.
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