Source: Wikimedia Commons
Drosera Rotundifolia
IntermediateDrosera rotundifolia
A round-leaved sundew native to Japan, growing in wetlands. Goes dormant in winter.
About
Drosera rotundifolia, the common or round-leaved sundew, has the widest natural distribution of any sundew species, occurring throughout the boreal and temperate zones of the Northern Hemisphere from North America across Europe to Japan. As its name suggests, it produces distinctive circular leaves arranged in a flat rosette, densely covered with red, glistening mucilaginous tentacles. In Japan, it is found in the alpine bogs and peat wetlands of Hokkaido and Honshu. The species is cold-hardy and enters winter dormancy by producing a resting bud (hibernaculum) when temperatures drop. Cultivation requires cool conditions, nutrient-poor sphagnum or peat-perlite media, tray watering with pure or rainwater, and strong light. It is sensitive to prolonged high summer temperatures and performs best in cool to temperate climates.
Lifespan of the Drosera Rotundifolia
The Drosera Rotundifolia lives 5+ years.
Size of the Drosera Rotundifolia
The Drosera Rotundifolia grows to 3-8cm.
Basic Info
Origin
Circumpolar distribution across the Northern Hemisphere (Europe, North Asia, North America, Japan), alpine bogs and peat wetlands
Lifespan
5+ years
Size
3-8cm
Temperature
10〜30℃
Humidity
60〜90%
Watering & Fertilizer
Insects (auto-capture)
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
It prefers strong direct sun and cool conditions. In summer place it in a cool spot with good airflow.
Watering
Keep the medium constantly moist with tray watering, using purified water or rainwater. As a bog plant it must never dry out.
Temperature & Overwintering
It is very cold hardy; in winter the top dies back and it rests as a hibernaculum. It dislikes heat, so take care in summer.
Soil & Repotting
Plant in moist sphagnum alone or a peat moss and perlite mix. Repotting is easiest during dormancy while it is a hibernaculum.
Dormancy Care
While dormant as a hibernaculum, keep the medium moist and expose it to cold. Forcing warmth disrupts its dormancy rhythm.
Drosera Rotundifolia FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Drosera Rotundifolia?
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 Rotundifolia?
The average lifespan of Drosera Rotundifolia is 5+ years. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.
QHow large does Drosera Rotundifolia get?
The mature size of Drosera Rotundifolia is 3-8cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Drosera Rotundifolia?
Drosera Rotundifolia: watering & fertilizer — Insects (auto-capture). Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Drosera Rotundifolia?
The price of Drosera Rotundifolia varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: August 31, 2026
Growing Specifications
- Hardiness (RHS)
- H5
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 rotundifolia L.
Synonyms: Drosera septentrionalis (Scop.) Stokes, Drosera rotundifolia var. furcata Y.Z.Ruan, Drosera rotundifolia var. perennis Gray, Drosera rotundifolia var. maritima Graebn., Drosera rotundifolia var. breviscapa Regel, Drosera rotundifolia f. comosa (Fernald) B.Boivin, Drosera rotundifolia var. comosa Fernald, Rorella rotundifolia (L.) All., Drosera rotundifolia var. distachya DC., Rossolis rotundifolia (L.) Moench, Drosera rotundifolia subsp. bracteata J.Kern & Stern, Drosera rotundifolia var. capillaris A.A.Eaton & Wright
Authority databases: GBIF · POWO · ICPS cultivar registration (International Carnivorous Plant Society)
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Regulations & Conservation Status
Drosera rotundifolia is not subject to CITES and is listed as Least Concern (LC) (widely distributed across the Holarctic region).
Sources: CITES Appendices (carnivorous plants) - ICPS/Barry Rice / CITES & Carnivorous Plant Checklist (RBG Kew) / Kew Plants of the World / IUCN: Drosera rotundifolia (LC)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
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