FEATURED SPECIES
Oblong-leaved Sundew
Photographs by Farina Grassmann
The oblong-leaved Sundew, Drosera intermedia, is an insectivorous plant native to temperate and tropical climates across Europe and in parts of North America and South America. It is a perennial herb with anti-inflammatory and antiseptic medicinal uses.
Along the periphery of oblong-leaved sundew’s spoon-shaped leaves are hairs with a sugary nectar-like dew on their tips. Glistening dew lures the sundew’s prey into the sticky fluid, where they become trapped and suffocate. The dew contains digestive enzymes to break down insects and absorb their nutrients.
Drosera intermedia inhabit bogs, fens, marshes, and the edges of ponds, lakes, and streams. They can be found in full or partial sun with mature individuals standing roughly 8 inches (20 cm) tall.
Oblong-leaved sundews are fascinating plants with a lot of great information available. What can you learn about these intriguing carnivores?
Photographs by Farina Grassmann
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FEATURED SPECIES
The pandemonic nature of evolution yields many fascinating species
