Source: Wikimedia Commons
Venus Flytrap
IntermediateDionaea muscipula
The world's most famous carnivorous plant. Clam-like leaves snap shut in 0.1 seconds to capture insects. Native only to Eastern US wetlands. Requires winter dormancy.
About
The Venus flytrap (Dionaea muscipula) is a carnivorous plant native to the subtropical wetlands of North and South Carolina, USA, and is the sole species of the monotypic genus Dionaea. It belongs to the family Droseraceae, closely related to sundews and the waterwheel plant. The plant captures prey—chiefly insects and arachnids—using a hinged, jaw-like trap formed from the terminal portion of each leaf. When an insect contacts one of the trigger hairs inside the trap twice within approximately 20 seconds, the trap snaps shut in as little as one-tenth of a second. Digestive enzymes then dissolve the prey's soft tissue and the plant absorbs the resulting nutrients. Cultivation requires nutrient-poor, acidic media such as pure sphagnum moss or a peat-perlite mix, and fertilizer must never be used. Watering should be done by the tray method using only pure, distilled, or rainwater.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Lifespan of the Venus Flytrap
The Venus Flytrap lives 10-20 years.
Size of the Venus Flytrap
The Venus Flytrap grows to 5-15cm.
Temperature & humidity for the Venus Flytrap
The ideal temperature for the Venus Flytrap is 5〜35℃. Ideal humidity is 60〜80%.
Full sun is preferred, and a winter dormancy period at 5–10°C is essential for long-term health.
Basic Info
Origin
the temperate and subtropical wetlands of North Carolina and South Carolina, USA
Lifespan
10-20 years
Size
5-15cm
Temperature
5〜35℃
Humidity
60〜80%
Watering & Fertilizer
Photosynthesis + insect prey. Manual feeding unnecessary
Growing Tips
Soil & Repotting
Use pure sphagnum or peat moss with perlite. As a plant of nutrient-poor bogs, it must never go in ordinary potting soil.
Fertilizer
Never fertilize. Photosynthesis and the insects it catches supply all it needs, so hand-feeding is unnecessary too.
Watering
Tray-water (bottom watering) to keep it constantly moist, always with pure, rain, or RO water. Aim for 60-80% humidity.
Light & Placement
Loves full sun; in low light the traps shrink. An outdoor spot in full sun is the standard placement.
Temperature & Overwintering
Grows at 5-35°C, and letting it go dormant at 5-10°C in winter is the key to long life. Do not overwinter it in a heated room.
Pests & Cautions
Each trap can close only a few times in its life, so do not trigger it for fun. Blackened top growth during dormancy is normal.
Venus Flytrap FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Venus Flytrap?
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 Venus Flytrap?
The ideal temperature for Venus Flytrap is 5〜35℃. Recommended humidity is 60〜80%. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QWhat is the lifespan of Venus Flytrap?
The average lifespan of Venus Flytrap is 10-20 years. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.
QHow large does Venus Flytrap get?
The mature size of Venus Flytrap is 5-15cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Venus Flytrap?
Venus Flytrap: watering & fertilizer — Photosynthesis + insect prey. Manual feeding unnecessary. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Venus Flytrap?
The price of Venus Flytrap 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
- USDA Zone
- 5–8
- Hardiness (RHS)
- H3
Sources: Missouri Botanical Garden - Dionaea muscipula (Zone 5-8) / RHS Find a Plant - Dionaea muscipula (H3)
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.
Primary sources
- Wikipedia
- CITES Appendices (carnivorous plants) - ICPS/Barry Rice
- CITES & Carnivorous Plant Checklist (RBG Kew)
- IUCN Red List: Dionaea muscipula (VU, 2000, A1acd+2c)
- Missouri Botanical Garden - Dionaea muscipula (Zone 5-8)
- RHS Find a Plant - Dionaea muscipula (H3)
- GBIF
- POWO
- ICPS cultivar registration (International Carnivorous Plant Society)
Taxonomy & Authority
Accepted name: Dionaea muscipula J.Ellis
Synonyms: Drosera sessiliflora Raf., Dionaea sessiliflora Raf., Dionaea sensitiva Salisb., Drosera uniflora Raf., Dionaea uniflora Raf., Dionaea corymbosa Raf.
Authority databases: GBIF · POWO · ICPS cultivar registration (International Carnivorous Plant Society)
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Regulations & Conservation Status
Venus flytrap (Dionaea muscipula) is CITES Appendix II and IUCN VU (primary cause is overharvesting of wild individuals).
Sources: CITES Appendices (carnivorous plants) - ICPS/Barry Rice / CITES & Carnivorous Plant Checklist (RBG Kew) / IUCN Red List: Dionaea muscipula (VU, 2000, A1acd+2c)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
Related Articles
Venus Flytrap Variety Guide | Popular Red, Giant, and Unusual Leaf Varieties
A detailed introduction to popular Venus flytrap varieties. From the all-red Akai Ryu to B52 with its giant traps, to unusual leaf varieties with deformed teeth, we explain the characteristics of each variety and differences in cultivation methods.
Venus Flytrap Annual Growing Cycle | Spring-Summer-Fall-Winter Management and Feeding Frequency Adjustment
From the Venus flytrap's spring growing season through summer peak vigor, autumn dormancy preparation, to winter low-temperature dormancy. Explains the annual growing cycle and seasonal management methods, and proper adjustment of feeding frequency.
Venus Flytrap Trigger Management | How to Protect Your Plant by Avoiding Unnecessary Stimulation
Venus flytrap trap leaves have a limited number of open-close cycles. This article provides practical guidance on management methods to prevent trap depletion from unnecessary stimulation, proper feeding techniques, and the causes and countermeasures for trap blackening.
Complete Guide to Growing Venus Flytraps | Post-Purchase Care and Tips for Thriving Growth
The Venus flytrap is a popular carnivorous plant that captures insects with its traps. This guide covers everything from required light, water, and soil to dormancy management, and explains why traps fail to close.
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