Dionaea muscipula 'Coquillage' - Ground-Hugging Venus Flytrap

Dionaea muscipula 'Coquillage' - Ground-Hugging Venus Flytrap

Embark on a botanical journey with the Dionaea muscipula 'Coquillage', a distinctive cultivar of the celebrated Venus Flytrap. Native to the wetlands of North Carolina, USA, this ground-hugging marvel captivates with its unique combination of features: short teeth, leaves that remain close to the ground, and traps that blush a vibrant red in strong light. Prepare to be enchanted by its unusual morphology and witness the wonders of nature's artistry.

Distinctive Features

• Short Teeth: The 'Coquillage' cultivar is characterized by its unusually short teeth, giving its traps a softer, more delicate appearance compared to other Venus Flytraps.
• Ground-Hugging Leaves: This cultivar's leaves maintain a prostrate (ground-hugging) habit, creating a unique and visually appealing growth pattern.
• Red Blush: When exposed to strong light, the traps of this cultivar develop a captivating red blush, adding a touch of vibrancy to its already intriguing appearance.

Care Tips

• Light: Provide bright indirect light or full sun for at least 6 hours a day to ensure robust growth and vibrant trap colouration. Ample light is essential for the development of the red blush on 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 'Coquillage' 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 derives 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 'Coquillage' 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.