Drosera cuneifolia L.f.

Species Classification and Growth Form

Drosera cuneifolia L.f. is a small perennial sundew species that grows in a rosette form.

Native Range

It is native to the Cape region of South Africa, and is only found near the Table Mountain complex there.

Taxonomic History

This species was first formally described in 1781.

Carnivorous Leaf Characteristics

It produces somewhat broad, green carnivorous leaves that can reach up to 7 cm (2.8 inches) in length.

Vegetative Size

Without including its flowering inflorescence, D. cuneifolia can grow up to 3 cm (1.2 inches) in height and 15 cm (5.9 inches) in width.

Flowering Period and Floral Traits

In early winter, D. cuneifolia produces multiple small flowers, up to 20 in total, ranging in color from pink to reddish-purple.

Inflorescence Structure

These flowers grow at the end of scapes that can reach up to 15 cm (5.9 inches) tall.

Floral Anthesis Behavior

Individual flowers open in the morning and close by mid-afternoon, lasting only one single day.

Pollination Mechanism

The flowers are capable of self-pollinating as they close.

Seed Characteristics

After flowering, the plant produces very small, black, spindle-shaped seeds that are released from the dried capsules left after the flower dies.

Dormancy Period

D. cuneifolia remains dormant through the South African summer, oversummering during this hot season.