Source: Wikimedia Commons
Drosera Regia
AdvancedDrosera regia
Called King Sundew, the largest sundew with leaves exceeding 60cm.
About
Drosera regia, the king sundew, is a magnificent species restricted in the wild to a single ravine—Bainskloof—in the Western Cape of South Africa, making it one of the rarest sundews in nature and listed as Endangered by the IUCN. It is among the largest sundews, producing strap-like leaves that can exceed 60 cm in length, densely covered with mucilage-tipped tentacles capable of capturing relatively large insects. Despite its size, the plant requires careful cultivation: nutrient-poor, consistently moist sphagnum media, tray watering with pure or rainwater, strong light, and cool to moderate temperatures (it is intolerant of prolonged high heat). Growth is slow. The combination of its rarity, impressive stature, and botanical uniqueness has made D. regia highly prized by advanced carnivorous plant collectors.
Lifespan of the Drosera Regia
The Drosera Regia lives 10+ years.
Size of the Drosera Regia
The Drosera Regia grows to 30-60cm.
Temperature & humidity for the Drosera Regia
The ideal temperature for the Drosera Regia is 10〜25℃.
Basic Info
Origin
Bainskloof Valley, Western Cape, South Africa (a single natural population)
Lifespan
10+ years
Size
30-60cm
Temperature
10〜25℃
Humidity
60〜90%
Watering & Fertilizer
Insects (auto-capture)
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
It likes strong light and direct sun is ideal. In summer, however, keep it in a cool spot away from heat.
Watering
Keep the medium constantly moist with tray watering, using purified water or rainwater. Never let it dry out.
Temperature & Overwintering
The ideal range is 10-25°C and it dislikes heat. Creating a cool summer environment is the key to success.
Soil & Repotting
Plant in moist sphagnum moss alone. Its leaves exceed 60 cm, so use a deep, large pot.
Pests & Cautions
Growth is fairly slow and some experience is needed. It is easily damaged by summer heat and drying.
Drosera Regia FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Drosera Regia?
Advanced. A variety suitable for advanced growers. Requires advanced cultivation techniques and specialized equipment, with careful environmental adjustments needed.
QWhat is the ideal temperature for Drosera Regia?
The ideal temperature for Drosera Regia is 10〜25℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QWhat is the lifespan of Drosera Regia?
The average lifespan of Drosera Regia is 10+ years. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.
QHow large does Drosera Regia get?
The mature size of Drosera Regia is 30-60cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Drosera Regia?
Drosera Regia: watering & fertilizer — Insects (auto-capture). Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Drosera Regia?
The price of Drosera Regia 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 regia Stephens
Synonyms: Freatulina regia (Stephens) Chrtek & Slavíková
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
Related Articles
Drosera (Sundew) Care Guide | Diverse Carnivorous Plants That Trap Insects with Sticky Secretions
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
Propagating sundews: leaf cutting technique, division method, seed sowing, and species-specific propagation recommendations.
Complete Guide to Sundew (Drosera) Cultivation | How to Bring Out the Beauty of Its Sticky Secretions
Explains varieties such as D. adelae and D. capensis, water-tray management, light requirements, and differences between temperate and tropical species.
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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