Dionaea muscipula 'Bart Simpson' - Quirky Venus Flytrap

Dionaea muscipula 'Bart Simpson' - Quirky Venus Flytrap

Embark on a botanical adventure with Dionaea muscipula 'Bart Simpson', a truly unique cultivar of the celebrated Venus Flytrap. Native to the wetlands of North Carolina, USA, this quirky marvel stands out with its unusual prostrate habit and slow-growing nature. While it may take its time to reveal its full potential, the 'Bart Simpson' cultivar rewards patient growers with fascinating traps that are sure to spark curiosity and conversation.

Distinctive Features

• Prostrate Habit: Unlike typical Venus Flytraps, which tend to grow upright, the 'Bart Simpson' cultivar maintains a prostrate (ground-hugging) habit, creating a unique and visually appealing growth pattern.
• Slow Growth: This cultivar is known for its slow growth rate, requiring a bit more patience and attention compared to other Venus Flytraps. However, its unique features make it well worth the wait.
• Intriguing Traps: The traps of this cultivar, while smaller than those of some other varieties, possess a unique charm with their unusual shapes and sizes. They are sure to capture the attention of any plant enthusiast.

Care Tips

• Light: Provide bright indirect light or full sun for at least 6 hours a day to encourage healthy growth and vibrant trap colouration. While this cultivar is more tolerant of lower light conditions than some others, ample light will help it reach its full potential.
• Water: Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Use distilled water or rainwater to prevent mineral buildup, which can be harmful to this sensitive plant.
• Humidity: As with other Venus Flytrap cultivars, the 'Bart Simpson' prefers moderate to high humidity levels. Consider using a humidity tray or misting regularly to maintain optimal conditions.
• Temperature: Maintain a temperature range of 20-30°C (68-86°F) during the growing season (spring and summer). In winter, provide a cooler dormancy period at around 5-10°C (41-50°F) to mimic its natural growth cycle.
• Fertiliser: No need for fertiliser! This carnivorous plant obtains its nutrients from the insects it captures, making it a fascinating and low-maintenance addition to your plant collection.
• Potting: Repot every 1-2 years in spring using a well-draining, acidic potting mix, such as a mixture of peat moss and perlite. Choose a container that is slightly larger than the previous one to accommodate its growth.
• Propagation: Propagation can be done through division of the rhizome, leaf cuttings, or seed. However, be patient, as it requires some skill and time.

Additional Notes

• The 'Bart Simpson' Venus Flytrap is a captivating conversation starter and a rewarding plant to cultivate. With proper care and patience, you can enjoy its unique carnivorous behaviour and quirky morphology for years to come.
• Remember to avoid touching the trigger hairs inside the traps, as this can cause them to close prematurely and expend unnecessary energy.
• Although non-toxic to pets and humans, it's always best to keep curious hands and paws away from this captivating carnivore.