Overview of Drosera tracyi Macfarlane
Drosera tracyi Macfarlane, commonly known as the Tracy’s sundew or pygmy sundew, is a carnivorous plant species belonging to the family Droseraceae. It is endemic to the southwest coast of Western Australia, specifically in the region between the Margaret River and Albany. The plant was first discovered and described by Dr. Allen Lowrie in 1990 and was named after one of his fellow botanists, Dr. Tracy Ann Strecker.
General Appearance of Drosera tracyi Macfarlane
Drosera tracyi Macfarlane is a small herbaceous perennial plant that grows up to 2-5 cm tall. It has a rosette-forming habit, with the leaves arranged in a circular formation around a central point. The leaves are narrowly spatulate, about 1.5-3.5 mm long and 0.5 mm wide, and are covered with small, glandular hairs that secrete sticky mucilage. These hairs function as traps for small insects, which the plant then digests in order to obtain nutrients.
The flower stalk of Drosera tracyi Macfarlane grows up to 10 cm tall and terminates in a single pink or white flower. The flower has five petals that are 3-5 mm long and are arranged in a radial symmetry. The plant blooms in spring and summer, usually from October to January.
Uses of Drosera tracyi Macfarlane
Drosera tracyi Macfarlane is primarily grown as an ornamental plant, especially among carnivorous plant collectors. However, some indigenous Australian groups also use sundews for medicinal purposes. For instance, Drosera species have been used to alleviate coughs, asthma, and other respiratory conditions. A poultice of crushed sundew leaves was also applied topically to treat skin issues, such as boils and abscesses.
Light Requirements
Drosera tracyi Macfarlane requires moderate to bright light conditions. It thrives in partial to full sunlight exposure, with at least 4 – 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Inadequate light can lead to poor growth and weak leaves. On the other hand, excess light or direct exposure to the hot sun can scorch the leaves and cause irreversible damage.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for the growth of Drosera tracyi Macfarlane is between 65 – 85 °F (18 – 29 °C). Extreme temperatures can cause the plant to undergo stress and stop growing altogether. It can survive a range of temperatures, but it is best to avoid exposing it to temperatures below 50 °F (10 °C) or above 100 °F (38 °C) as these can be fatal.
Soil Requirements
Drosera tracyi Macfarlane grows best in sphagnum peat moss and perlite mix substrate, which has a pH range of 4.5 – 5.5. The soil mix should be well-draining to prevent waterlogging. The substrate should also be rich in minerals and nutrients to provide the plant with a source of nutrition. It does well in damp and moist soil conditions, so providing a humidity tray may be necessary for optimal growth.
Cultivation Methods
Drosera tracyi Macfarlane, also known as the Tracy's sundew, is a carnivorous plant species that requires a unique cultivation method. Firstly, you should grow this plant in a container that has good drainage and a nutrient-poor substrate, such as sphagnum moss or peat. The plant requires bright sunlight, but it should be protected from direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the day. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 20 and 30 °C, and it requires a high level of humidity.
Watering Needs
The plant requires constant moisture in its soil. Therefore, it is suggested to keep the soil moist at all times. However, it is vital to avoid waterlogging. It is best to water the plant with rainwater, distilled water, or reverse osmosis water as it must be protected from the chemicals and minerals in tap water. It is recommended that the tray under the pot be emptied to prevent the roots from rotting due to excessive water.
Fertilization
As a carnivorous plant, Drosera tracyi Macfarlane obtains its nutrients from the insects that it traps. Therefore, it does not require fertilization like traditional plants do. Fertilization would do more harm than good to the plant. Over-feeding your sundew can damage it and affect the maturation process.
Pruning
Pruning is not required in the case of the Drosera tracyi Macfarlane plant as it is best left to continue its growth cycle uninterrupted. The plant will naturally die back and move into a dormant period before re-emerging.
Propagation of Drosera tracyi Macfarlane
Drosera tracyi Macfarlane is a carnivorous plant native to Australia. It primarily grows in wet heathlands, bogs, and swamps. The plant has long green leaves that look like tentacles and produce a clear sticky liquid on their tips to trap insects. Propagation of this plant can be done through various methods.
Seed Propagation
The easiest and most common way to propagate Drosera tracyi Macfarlane is through seed propagation. Collecting seeds from the plant's spent flowers is an easy task. The seeds are like dust and require very careful handling. Sow the seeds on top of the growing medium and mist with water. Place the container in a clear plastic bag or cover it with plastic wrap to keep the humidity levels high. Germination of seeds typically occurs in 2-3 weeks depending on the temperature and humidity.
Division
An alternative to propagating Drosera tracyi Macfarlane from seeds is by splitting the plant. Divide the plant when it has outgrown its current pot or has developed multiple 'rosettes' close together. Gently remove the plant from its current container, carefully tease its roots apart, and replant each section in its container. Water each division and keep the humidity levels high to reduce shock.
Leaf Cuttings
Another way to propagate Drosera tracyi Macfarlane is through leaf cuttings. Choose a mature leaf and cut it from the plant. Then cut the leaf into small segments, each with a piece of the stem attached. Place these leaf cuttings on top of the growing medium, ensuring that the stem makes contact with the soil. Cover the container with clear plastic or a plastic bag to increase humidity. Within a few weeks, a new plant will start to grow.
In conclusion, propagation of Drosera tracyi Macfarlane can be done through seed propagation, division, or leaf cuttings. Careful handling and growing conditions are required in all methods to ensure successful propagation.
Disease and Pest Management for Drosera tracyi Macfarlane
Drosera tracyi Macfarlane, commonly known as the Tracy's sundew, is a carnivorous plant that requires special care. While it is generally resistant to diseases and pests, there are situations in which the plant may become vulnerable to pathogens, fungi, or insects. Below are some common diseases and pests that might affect Drosera tracyi and ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
Pythium Root Rot: This disease is caused by the fungus Pythium, which thrives in damp soil conditions. The symptoms include wilting and yellowing of the leaves, and the plant may eventually die if not treated. To manage Pythium Root Rot, it is essential to monitor the soil moisture and avoid overwatering the plant. Additionally, you can use a fungicide product that contains active ingredients such as triflumizole and mefenoxam. Follow the label instructions and repeat the application if necessary.
Rust: The rust disease is caused by the fungus Puccinia species that appear as orange spots on the leaves. The damage may cause the leaves to distort or fall off, leading to lower photosynthetic capacity. To manage rust, it is important to remove the infected parts and dispose of them properly. Furthermore, applying a fungicide containing chlorothalonil can help prevent the spread of the disease.
Common Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the plant's leaves. Infested leaves may turn yellow or curl, and the damage can cause the plant to weaken. To manage aphids, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil to target the pests. Alternatively, releasing natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings can help eliminate the aphids.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that thrive in hot and dry conditions. They feed on the plant's sap and spin webs that cover the leaves. The symptoms of spider mites infestation include yellow and speckled foliage and drying out of the plant. To manage spider mites, you can use an organic pesticide containing azadirachtin or pyrethrin. Additionally, increasing the humidity around the plant and regularly cleaning the leaves with water can help deter the pests.
By following the recommended treatments and preventative measures, you can help your Drosera tracyi Macfarlane thrive and maintain its carnivorous abilities.
