Dionaea muscipula 'Bristle Tooth' - Venus Flytrap with Hair-like Teeth

Dionaea muscipula 'Bristle Tooth' - Venus Flytrap with Hair-like Teeth

Delve into the fascinating world of carnivorous plants with *Dionaea muscipula* 'Bristle Tooth', a captivating cultivar of the celebrated Venus Flytrap. Native to the wetlands of North Carolina, USA, this intriguing variety stands out with its exceptionally fine, hair-like teeth, which give its traps a delicate yet menacing appearance. Prepare to be mesmerized by its vibrant red traps, intensified by good light, and witness the wonders of natural selection.

Distinctive Features

• Fine, Hair-like Teeth: The 'Bristle Tooth' cultivar is distinguished by its remarkably fine teeth, resembling short bristles, which adorn the edges of its traps. These delicate teeth add a unique textural element to this captivating plant.
• Ground-Hugging Leaves: This cultivar's leaves maintain a prostrate (ground-hugging) habit, creating a visually appealing and compact growth pattern.
• Intense Red Traps: When cultivated under good lighting conditions, the traps of this cultivar develop an intense red colouration, adding a dramatic flair to its already fascinating appearance.

Care Tips

• Light: Provide bright indirect light or full sun for at least 6 hours a day to ensure vigorous growth and vibrant trap colouration. Ample light is crucial for intensifying the red colour of the traps.
• 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 'Bristle Tooth' 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 'Bristle Tooth' Venus Flytrap is a captivating conversation starter and a rewarding plant to cultivate. With proper care, you can enjoy its unique carnivorous behaviour and distinctive 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.