Drosera filiformis var. tracyi - Winter Dormant

Tall, thread-like leaves with dramatic seasonal growth

Drosera filiformis var. tracyi is a striking North American sundew known for its long, upright, thread-like leaves covered in glistening sticky tentacles. It is one of the largest sundews in cultivation, forming an impressive vertical display during the growing season.

This species is best suited to outdoor growing in suitable climates, where it can experience natural seasonal changes. Winter dormancy is essential for long-term health and vigour.

Key Characteristics

• Plant type: North American sundew
• Growth habit: Tall, upright, filamentous leaves
• Leaf colour: Green with red tentacles (colour intensifies in strong light)
• Size: Large when mature
• Seasonal growth: Active spring–summer; winter dormancy required

Winter Dormancy

Drosera filiformis var. tracyi is a temperate carnivorous plant that requires a cold winter dormancy each year. As temperatures cool and day length shortens, the long leaves will naturally brown and die back, leaving a compact resting bud (hibernaculum) at the surface of the growing media. This is a normal and essential part of the plant's annual growth cycle.

• Dormancy is essential: Plants should not be kept actively growing all year.
• Watering: Keep the growing media just damp during dormancy rather than sitting constantly in water.
• Temperature: Cool conditions between 0–10°C are ideal throughout winter.
• Frost: Plants tolerate light frosts while dormant but should be protected from prolonged freezing conditions.
• Spring: As temperatures rise, the dormant bud will naturally produce a fresh flush of tall, sticky leaves.

Growing Conditions

• Light: Full sun to very bright light for strong growth
• Water: Rainwater, distilled, or reverse osmosis water only
• Potting mix: Nutrient-poor carnivorous plant mix (peat or sphagnum based)
• Watering method: Tray method recommended during active growth
• Dormancy: Yes — cold winter dormancy is essential

Notes on Appearance

Leaf length, colour, and overall size vary with light levels, temperature, and season. During dormancy, growth dies back to a resting point at soil level. Images are representative and often show mature plants in active growth.

What you’ll receive

• A healthy, well-established plant grown by us
• Supplied in a nursery pot (decorative pots not included)
• Plant size corresponds to the selected variant and season