Source: Wikimedia Commons
Drosera Spatulata
BeginnerDrosera spatulata
A spatula-leaved sundew native to Japan, forming cute rosettes.
About
Drosera spatulata, the spoon-leaved sundew, is among the most widely distributed sundews in the world, occurring naturally in Japan, China, Southeast Asia, Australia, and New Zealand. In Japan it grows in moist rocky outcrops and wetlands from the Kanto region westward. The plant forms attractive rosettes of spatulate (spoon-shaped) leaves densely covered with red, glistening mucilaginous tentacles that capture small insects. It is very easy to cultivate, setting seed freely and tolerating a range of conditions in sphagnum or peat-perlite media with tray watering and bright to full sunlight. Japanese populations are relatively cold-tolerant, though subtropical and tropical forms may require frost protection. D. spatulata is an ideal species for beginners.
Lifespan of the Drosera Spatulata
The Drosera Spatulata lives 3-5 years.
Size of the Drosera Spatulata
The Drosera Spatulata grows to 3-8cm.
Basic Info
Origin
Japan, China, Southeast Asia, Australia, and New Zealand, moist rocky outcrops and wetlands
Lifespan
3-5 years
Size
3-8cm
Temperature
10〜30℃
Humidity
60〜90%
Watering & Fertilizer
Insects (auto-capture)
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
It loves strong direct sun, and more light makes its tentacles redder. A sunny outdoor spot suits it best.
Watering
Keep the medium constantly moist with tray watering, using purified water or rainwater. As long as it never dries out it grows sturdily.
Temperature & Overwintering
Japanese populations are fairly cold hardy, but tropical ones may be cold sensitive. Protect it in winter according to its origin.
Soil & Repotting
Plant in moist sphagnum alone or a peat moss and perlite mix. Being small, it does fine in a shallow pot.
Propagation
It sets seed abundantly and is easily raised from seed. A sturdy beginner's plant that even self-sows.
Drosera Spatulata FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Drosera Spatulata?
Beginner. A variety suitable for beginners. No special equipment or experience is required—you can grow it without problems by setting up a basic cultivation environment.
QWhat is the lifespan of Drosera Spatulata?
The average lifespan of Drosera Spatulata is 3-5 years. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.
QHow large does Drosera Spatulata get?
The mature size of Drosera Spatulata is 3-8cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Drosera Spatulata?
Drosera Spatulata: watering & fertilizer — Insects (auto-capture). Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Drosera Spatulata?
The price of Drosera Spatulata 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 spatulata Labill.
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.
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This article explains the characteristics of major sundew species and cultivation techniques (light, humidity, soil) for making mucilage shine beautifully.
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