Description of Drosera peltata
Drosera peltata or Spoon-leaved Sundew is a carnivorous plant native to the Philippines, Southeast Asia, and India. It belongs to the Droseraceae family, commonly known for their insectivorous characteristics that help them survive in nutrient-deficient soils. The plant was first discovered by a British botanist, George Bentham, in 1848 and has been classified under different names such as Drosera schlechteri and Drosera squamosa in the past.
General Appearance
Drosera peltata is a perennial herb with a small rosette of spoon-shaped leaves that grow up to 1.5 cm in length. The leaves are covered with glandular hairs that produce a sticky, mucilaginous substance to trap small insects when they land on them. The plant's root system is relatively weak and shallow, which is not enough to support the plant's growth. Therefore, the leaves serve as the primary organs of photosynthesis and digestion. The plant's sterile stolons produce tiny plantlets that can grow into full-grown plants with proper care and conditions.
Common Names
Drosera peltata has different common names depending on the region it is found in. In the Philippines, it is known as Takip-kohol or Pitsatpatan; in India, it is called Tirumalai Sundew, and in Sri Lanka, it is known as Madanamohini.
Uses
Traditionally, Drosera peltata has been used for medicinal purposes as it contains compounds with anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anti-cancer properties. However, due to its small size and specialized growth requirements, it is not commonly used in modern medicine. Nevertheless, the plant is popular among carnivorous plant enthusiasts for its unique appearance and insectivorous nature.
Light Requirements
Drosera peltata requires plenty of sunlight to grow properly. It is recommended to expose these plants to direct sunlight for at least 5-6 hours every day. However, be careful not to expose them to scorching sun rays that can dry out the leaves.
Temperature Requirements
Drosera peltata grows well in temperatures between 60°F (16°C) and 85°F (29°C). These plants are highly adaptable, but they can suffer damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Soil Requirements
The soil for Drosera peltata should be acidic, well-draining, and nutrient-poor. These plants need a soil mixture that contains peat moss, sand, and perlite to ensure proper drainage and aeration of the soil. It is also essential to maintain a consistent level of soil moisture for the plant's proper growth.
Water Requirements
Drosera peltata is a carnivorous plant, and it needs water that is low in minerals and nutrients. The best water source for these plants is distilled water, rainwater, or reverse osmosis-treated water. Do not use tap water as it contains chemicals and minerals like chlorine, fluoride, and salt that can harm the plant.
Cultivation Methods
Drosera peltata, also known as the shield sundew, grows in wetland habitats. To cultivate this plant, you will need a pot, carnivorous plant soil mix, and sphagnum moss. Fill the pot with carnivorous plant soil mix, leaving about an inch of space at the top. Then add a layer of sphagnum moss on top. Plant the Drosera peltata in the pot and keep it in a location that is partially shaded.
Watering Needs
Drosera peltata needs a lot of water to thrive. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant from the base by filling a tray with water and placing the pot on top. The plant will absorb the water through the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot. Do not water the plant from the top, as this can wash away the sticky mucilage that the plant produces to catch insects.
Fertilization
As a carnivorous plant, Drosera peltata obtains its nutrients from insects and other small prey. It does not need fertilizer, and adding fertilizer can harm the plant by burning its sensitive roots. Do not add any nutrients to the soil or water.
Pruning
Drosera peltata does not require pruning, as it grows low to the ground and does not develop a woody structure. However, if you notice any dead or decaying leaves, remove them carefully to prevent any mold or disease from spreading to healthy parts of the plant.
Propagation of Drosera Peltata
Drosera peltata, commonly known as the shield sundew, propagates through three primary methods. These include leaf cuttings, division, and seed sowing. It is important to note that this plant is generally not easy to propagate, and it requires specific conditions to ensure success.
Leaf Cuttings
One of the easiest and most effective propagation methods for Drosera peltata is through leaf cuttings. It involves removing healthy leaves from a mature plant and planting them in a growing medium that is a mix of sand, peat moss, and perlite. These leaves should ideally have some petiole attached to them.
Place the container with leaf cuttings in a bright, warm location, and water them gently every few days. After a few weeks, tiny plantlets will emerge from the base of the leaves, which can be transplanted into their individual pots when they are large enough to handle.
Division
Propagation through division is another method that works well for Drosera peltata. It involves dividing the plant into smaller sections, each with its roots and leaves, and planting them in separate pots. This method is best carried out during the plant's active growing season, ideally in early spring.
The parent plant should be lifted carefully from the soil, and the roots should be separated gently to avoid damage. The plant can then be divided into smaller clumps, each with roots and leaves, which can be planted in fresh growing medium. It is essential to keep the newly planted divisions well-watered and in bright, humid conditions for a few weeks until they become established.
Seed Sowing
Seed sowing is the most challenging propagation method for Drosera peltata. It involves sowing the seeds in a mixture of sphagnum moss and perlite, and providing a moist, warm environment for germination. The seeds need to be gently pressed onto the surface of the growth medium and kept under bright, indirect light.
It may take anywhere between a few weeks to months for the seeds to germinate. Once the seedlings have two to three leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots filled with a suitable growing mix. It is crucial to keep the seedlings well-watered and in moderately humid conditions.
Propagation methods for Drosera peltata require patience, specific conditions, and care to ensure success. With these methods, however, it is possible to grow multiple plants and enjoy their unique beauty.
Disease and Pest Management for Drosera peltata Plant
Drosera peltata plant is generally resistant to several pests and diseases. However, some factors such as poor cultivation practices, improper growing conditions, and other environmental factors can make the plant vulnerable to various pests and diseases. At times, pests and diseases attack the plant, affecting its growth, health, and productivity. To effectively manage these problems, it's important to identify the disease or pest infestation symptoms and their causes, then apply appropriate management measures.
Common Diseases
Drosera peltata plant is susceptible to fungal diseases such as leaf blight and root rot. Leaf blight symptoms include round or oblong dark brown lesions on leaves, which eventually leads to leaf death. Root rot, on the other hand, causes the plant to wilt, become yellowish, and ultimately die. The disease spreads through soil, water, and infected plant parts. With leaf blight, remove affected leaves and debris around the plant. For root rot, remove and dispose of infected plants and debris around the plant roots, apply fungicide at the recommended rate, and avoid overwatering and poorly drained soils.
Common Pests
Some common pests that can affect Drosera peltata plant include spider mites, aphids, slugs, and snails. Spider mites and aphids both feed on plant sap, causing plants to become weak, yellow, and stunted. Slugs and snails feed on young leaves and stems, leading to poor plant development. To manage spider mites, increase humidity, remove damaged leaves, and apply insecticidal soap. For aphids, use insecticidal soap, prune infested areas, and use biological control such as ladybugs. For slugs and snails, use beer traps, handpick them, and create barriers using crushed eggshells.
