Dionaea muscipula 'Akai Ryu/Red Dragon' - Venus Fly Trap

Dionaea muscipula 'Akai Ryu/Red Dragon', a truly remarkable cultivar of the celebrated Venus Flytrap. Native to the wetlands of North Carolina, USA, this stunning variety stands out with its vibrant all-red foliage, which undergoes a dramatic transformation throughout the year, transitioning from compact growth in winter to long, upright leaves in summer.

Distinctive Features

• All-Red Foliage: The 'Akai Ryu/Red Dragon' cultivar is renowned for its striking all-red foliage, which adds a touch of drama and intensity to any plant collection. The vibrant red colouration is present in both the leaves and traps, creating a visually stunning display.
• Seasonal Growth: This cultivar exhibits a fascinating seasonal growth pattern. In winter, it maintains a compact habit with shorter leaves, while in summer, it develops long, upright leaves that reach for the sky.
• Carnivorous Nature: Like all Venus Flytraps, this cultivar possesses intricate traps lined with sensitive trigger hairs that snap shut when stimulated, capturing unsuspecting prey inside.

Care Tips

• Light: Provide bright indirect light or full sun for at least 6 hours a day to ensure vigorous growth and maintain the vibrant red colouration of the foliage. Ample light is essential for this cultivar to thrive and display 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 'Akai Ryu/Red Dragon' 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.