The Drosera latifolia is a captivating and uncommon sundew species admired for its broad, glistening leaves and dramatic carnivorous display. Unlike many slender-leaved sundews, this species features wide, paddle-shaped leaves arranged in a tight, elegant rosette. Each leaf is covered in vibrant red to pink glandular tentacles tipped with glistening droplets of sticky “dew” that shimmer beautifully in the light. These sparkling droplets not only create a jewel-like appearance but also function as the plant’s primary method of trapping and digesting small insects—an essential adaptation for survival in nutrient-poor soils.
Native to South America, Drosera latifolia thrives in bright light to full sun, which encourages its most intense coloration and robust growth. It prefers consistently moist, acidic, nutrient-poor soil—typically a peat and sand or perlite mix—and should be watered exclusively with distilled or rainwater. With proper care, this sundew produces a steady flush of new leaves that maintain its low, symmetrical rosette form. During its blooming season, the plant sends up tall, slender stalks topped with delicate pink or white flowers that hover above the traps, ensuring the blooms remain clear of its sticky leaves.
Perfect for carnivorous plant collectors seeking a bold and visually striking species, Drosera latifolia offers broad, gleaming foliage, vivid coloration, and fascinating insect-catching behavior. Its combination of beauty, ease of care, and botanical intrigue makes it a standout addition to terrariums, greenhouse setups, or any carefully curated sundew collection.
