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Round-leaved sundew

Name: Round-leaved sundew
Brand: Akène
SKU: AKE-SEMGR3
Price: 6.99 CAD
Availability: InStock

Common name Round-Leaved Sundew

Latin name Drosera rotundifolia

Quantity per packet Minimum 400 seeds

This remarkable native carnivorous plant captivates with its glistening insect-trapping leaves while helping recreate authentic Canadian peatland habitats for conservation and education.

Product information

Product
identification

Common nameRound-Leaved Sundew

Latin nameDrosera rotundifolia

FamilyDroseraceae

TypeNative carnivorous plant

CyclePerennial

Quantity per packMinimum 400 seeds

Code produitAKENE-0018

Product
description

Round-Leaved Sundew (Drosera rotundifolia) is a fascinating small native carnivorous plant naturally found in bogs and acidic wetlands across Canada. Its round green-and-red leaves are covered with sparkling droplets of sticky mucilage that trap small insects. This remarkable adaptation allows it to survive in extremely nutrient-poor soils where few other plants can thrive. Its unique appearance makes it a botanically valuable species for bog gardens, conservation projects, and specialized ecological plantings.

To grow Round-Leaved Sundew successfully, its natural habitat must be reproduced as closely as possible. It prefers a very acidic, nutrient-poor, peat-based substrate that remains constantly moist, with no fertilizer added. Rainwater or demineralized water is strongly recommended, as hard water and fertilized potting mixes can harm growth. In full sun to bright partial shade, it develops more colorful foliage and produces more mucilage.

In the garden, Round-Leaved Sundew fits perfectly into constructed bog gardens, acidic natural ponds, and rare native plant collections. It pairs naturally with Purple Pitcher Plant, Cranberry, Cottongrass, and Sheep Laurel, recreating the character of Canadian peatlands. Its delicate pinkish-white summer flowers rise above the carnivorous foliage, while its carnivorous mechanism, exceptional hardiness, and educational value make Drosera rotundifolia ideal for botanical enthusiasts and biodiversity-focused gardens.

Sowing
guide

Sowing periodAutumn or spring after cold stratification

Best time

Autumn or spring

Sowing depthSurface sow

Spacing / density

15 to 30 cm (6 to 12 in)

Germination temperature18 to 22°C (64 to 72°F)

Germination time14 to 60 days

Propagation

Propagate primarily by seed after cold stratification. Under suitable conditions, plants may also spread naturally by self-seeding.

Growing
method

Surface sow Round-Leaved Sundew seeds on a highly acidic peat-based growing medium without covering them. Cold stratification improves germination, which generally occurs within 14 to 60 days. Maintain constant moisture using only rainwater or demineralized water, and never apply fertilizer. Place seedlings in full sun to bright partial shade to encourage colorful carnivorous leaves and abundant mucilage production. Naturally found in nutrient-poor bogs across Canada, Drosera rotundifolia requires very little maintenance once its moisture and acidity requirements are consistently met.

Soil
and care

ExposureFull sun to partial shade

Soil

Peaty, acidic, nutrient-poor, and constantly wet. The growing medium must remain unfertilized to replicate natural bog conditions.

Soil pHStrongly acidic to acidic

Watering

Keep the growing medium constantly wet throughout the growing season. Use rainwater or demineralized water to preserve the naturally acidic conditions required by this species.

Fertilization

No fertilizer should ever be applied. Round-Leaved Sundew is naturally adapted to nutrient-poor soils, and fertilizers may severely damage or kill the plant.

Care levelLow

In spring, ensure the growing medium remains constantly wet and remove accumulated plant debris. During summer, carefully monitor water levels and never apply fertilizer. In autumn, allow the plant to enter dormancy naturally. Throughout winter, it survives beneath snow in consistently moist conditions. Maintaining an acidic, nutrient-poor growing medium is the single most important aspect of its care.

Container
growing

Recommended pot size

15 to 20 cm (6 to 8 in)

Round-Leaved Sundew grows well in shallow containers filled exclusively with unfertilized sphagnum peat kept constantly wet using rainwater or demineralized water. This native carnivorous plant performs poorly in fertilized growing media. A bright location replicating natural bog conditions encourages colorful foliage and abundant sticky mucilage. Growing in containers makes it easier to maintain the moisture and acidity this species requires.

Bloom,
harvest
and garden

Its fascinating carnivorous leaves provide a unique window into one of nature's most remarkable adaptations while enhancing native bog gardens and supporting wetland biodiversity.

This remarkable native carnivorous plant captivates with its glistening insect-trapping leaves while helping recreate authentic Canadian peatland habitats for conservation and education.

Garden use

Round-Leaved Sundew is ideal for bog gardens, acidic ponds, conservation projects, and specialized native plant collections. It combines naturally with Purple Pitcher Plants and Cranberries to recreate authentic peatland ecosystems. Its remarkable carnivorous leaves make it an outstanding educational plant while supporting biodiversity and wetland conservation.

Bloom period

Delicate pinkish-white flowers bloom from June to August on stems held above the carnivorous leaves, protecting pollinating insects while adding ornamental interest.

Flower colorPinkish white

Foliage colorGreen with red highlights

Harvest

July to September

Wildlife appealPollinators

Size
and facts

Height5 to 10 cm (2 to 4 in)

Spread3 to 8 cm (1 to 3 in)

Growth rateSlow

Hardiness zoneUSDA Zones 3–8

Minimum temperature-40°C (-40°F)

Foliage typeDeciduous

Insectes utilestrue

Planting
partners

Good companions

Purple Pitcher Plant, Sheep Laurel, Cranberry, Cottongrass

Avoid planting with

Lavender, Thyme, Sage, Cotton Lavender

Recipe
and inspiration

Round-Leaved Sundew is not cultivated for culinary purposes. Instead, it is prized for its remarkable adaptation to nutrient-poor bog habitats and its natural ability to capture small insects. Although it has a long history of traditional medicinal use, today it is grown primarily for its ecological, botanical, and educational value. It is one of the most fascinating native plants for bog gardens and conservation collections.

Frequently asked questions

When should I sow Round-Leaved Sundew seeds? +

Round-Leaved Sundew seeds are best sown in autumn or in spring after a period of cold stratification, which greatly improves germination.

Why is Round-Leaved Sundew a carnivorous plant? +

Its leaves are covered with sticky glandular tentacles that trap small insects. This adaptation allows the plant to obtain nutrients unavailable in the nutrient-poor soils of bogs.

Can I use regular potting soil for Round-Leaved Sundew? +

No. Regular potting soil is far too rich for Round-Leaved Sundew. Use only an acidic, nutrient-poor peat-based substrate.

What type of water should I use for Round-Leaved Sundew? +

Rainwater or demineralized water is strongly recommended. Hard water can gradually damage or kill the plant.

Is Round-Leaved Sundew suitable for bog gardens? +

Yes. Round-Leaved Sundew is perfectly adapted to bog gardens and acidic wetlands, where it grows naturally alongside Purple Pitcher Plants and Cranberries.

The availability of our seeds varies depending on seasonal availability, production schedules and supplier inventory. Certain varieties may only be offered for a limited time based on their natural growth cycle, sowing period or available stock. These product pages are designed to help and inspire gardeners in choosing the right seeds for vegetable gardens, flower beds, pollinator gardens, container growing, naturalization projects and sustainable outdoor spaces.