Source: Wikimedia Commons
Drosera Prolifera
IntermediateDrosera prolifera
A unique sundew producing plantlets on flower stalks, spreading in an interesting creeping manner.
About
Drosera prolifera, the hen-and-chickens sundew, is native to the humid tropical rainforest understory of northeastern Queensland, Australia, growing in shaded, constantly moist environments along stream banks. Its most remarkable characteristic is an exceptional capacity for vegetative reproduction: the flower stalks regularly produce numerous plantlets (adventitious buds) at nodes and at the tip, often before the stalk even reaches the soil—hence the common name. Like D. adelae, it is adapted to low-light conditions and must be protected from direct sun. Its prolific multiplication and unusual propagation biology make it a favorite curiosity among carnivorous plant enthusiasts.
Lifespan of the Drosera Prolifera
The Drosera Prolifera lives 5+ years.
Size of the Drosera Prolifera
The Drosera Prolifera grows to 3-8cm.
Temperature & humidity for the Drosera Prolifera
The ideal temperature for the Drosera Prolifera is 18〜28℃.
Cultivation requires consistently moist sphagnum media, tray watering with pure or rainwater, warm temperatures (20–28°C), and bright indirect light.
Basic Info
Origin
Northeastern Queensland, Australia, shaded tropical rainforest stream banks and moist rock faces
Lifespan
5+ years
Size
3-8cm
Temperature
18〜28℃
Humidity
60〜90%
Watering & Fertilizer
Insects (auto-capture)
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
Adapted to partial or full shade, it must be kept out of direct sun. Place it in bright shade where high humidity can be maintained.
Watering
Keep the sphagnum moist by tray watering or constant moisture, using purified water or rainwater. Maintain high humidity and never let it dry.
Temperature & Overwintering
It prefers warm, humid conditions at 18-28°C. It is cold sensitive, so keep it in a warm room in winter.
Soil & Repotting
Plant in moist sphagnum moss alone. It creeps and spreads, so a shallow, wide pot is easiest to manage.
Propagation
It produces plantlets one after another from the tips and nodes of its flower stalks. Cut them off and set them on moist sphagnum to multiply easily.
Drosera Prolifera FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Drosera Prolifera?
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 ideal temperature for Drosera Prolifera?
The ideal temperature for Drosera Prolifera is 18〜28℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QWhat is the lifespan of Drosera Prolifera?
The average lifespan of Drosera Prolifera is 5+ years. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.
QHow large does Drosera Prolifera get?
The mature size of Drosera Prolifera is 3-8cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Drosera Prolifera?
Drosera Prolifera: watering & fertilizer — Insects (auto-capture). Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Drosera Prolifera?
The price of Drosera Prolifera 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 prolifera C.T.White
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.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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