Venus fly trap
Venus fly trap
This is a fascinating plant, which will eat flies! Its leaves are modified, so grow to develop spiny traps at their tips. These are red-flushed or green in colour, and are designed to snap shut when an insect (attracted by the plant’s nectar) sits inside. Tempting as it may be, you should avoid setting off the traps by touching them yourself, as each trap will only activate two to three times before it dies back. These will get replaced, but if the plant does not get the chance to absorb the nutrients from the insect, it may become weakened over time.
Please note that the pot in the photograph is not supplied with the plant (which is sent out in a simple nursery alternative), but we have a wide and wonderful range on our website to choose from.
Please note that the pot in the photograph is not supplied with the plant (which is sent out in a simple nursery alternative), but we have a wide and wonderful range on our website to choose from.
How to care for Dionaea muscipula:
This carnivorous plant should be watered from below during the growing season. The easiest way to do this is to stand the pot in a saucer that is filled with 1cm of soft or rain water. Ideally the pot and water-filled saucer should be kept on a tray of gravel as this will help keep the humidity high. When the plant is dormant, water only when the compost gets dry, making sure the excess can drain away freely. Pot on in spring using a specialist carnivorous plant compost. Plants take a few years to reach maturity and their full potential size. Regular feeding with insects can support healthier and more vigorous growth.
Eventual height:
0.3m
Eventual spread:
0.2m
Position:
Bright light
Rate of growth:
Average
Soil:
Specialist compost
Hardiness:
Frost tender
Unavailable
Standard Delivery£5.95
