Source: Wikimedia Commons
Roridula Gorgonias
AdvancedRoridula gorgonias
A South African proto-carnivore trapping insects with mucilage but relying on symbiotic bugs to digest.
About
Roridula gorgonias is a woody shrubby plant from the Western Cape of South Africa, classified as a protocarnivore or paracarnivore—it captures insects on its sticky glandular leaves but lacks the ability to secrete digestive enzymes. Instead, it relies on a specialized mutualistic relationship with the hemipteran bug Pameridea roridulae, which feeds on the trapped insects and deposits nitrogenous feces that the plant absorbs through its leaves. This indirect nutrient acquisition via an intermediary organism represents an unusual and well-studied stepping stone in the evolution of carnivory. The plant is a woody shrub reaching about 1 m in height, producing attractive flowers, and adapted to the fire-prone fynbos vegetation of the southwestern Cape. Cultivation requires well-drained, mineral media, a Mediterranean-style wet-dry regime, and full sun.
Lifespan of the Roridula Gorgonias
The Roridula Gorgonias lives 10+ years.
Size of the Roridula Gorgonias
The Roridula Gorgonias grows to 30-100cm.
Basic Info
Origin
Western Cape, South Africa, fynbos heathland vegetation
Lifespan
10+ years
Size
30-100cm
Temperature
10〜30℃
Humidity
60〜90%
Watering & Fertilizer
Insects (indirect)
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
Loves strong direct sun. Give it an airy outdoor spot in full sun; never keep it in shade or stagnant air.
Soil & Repotting
Use a free-draining, sandy to mineral, acidic medium. Repot as little as possible to avoid damaging the woody stems and roots.
Watering
Mimic a Mediterranean climate by alternating dry and moist periods. It tolerates drought well, so water with pure water once the medium dries.
Pests & Cautions
It produces no digestive fluid; trapped insects only become nutrients via the symbiotic bug's droppings. In cultivation, caught prey gives little direct nutrition.
Pruning & Shaping
A shrub with woody stems reaching about 1 m. Stake it to keep it upright and limit pruning to light shaping.
Roridula Gorgonias FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Roridula Gorgonias?
Advanced. A variety suitable for advanced growers. Requires advanced cultivation techniques and specialized equipment, with careful environmental adjustments needed.
QWhat is the lifespan of Roridula Gorgonias?
The average lifespan of Roridula Gorgonias is 10+ years. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.
QHow large does Roridula Gorgonias get?
The mature size of Roridula Gorgonias is 30-100cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Roridula Gorgonias?
Roridula Gorgonias: watering & fertilizer — Insects (indirect). Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Roridula Gorgonias?
The price of Roridula Gorgonias varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 17, 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: Roridula gorgonias Planch.
Synonyms: Roridula crinita Gand.
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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