Dionaea muscipula 'Shell Tooth' - Unique Toothless Venus Flytrap

Dionaea muscipula 'Shell Tooth' - Unique Toothless Venus Flytrap

Embark on a botanical adventure with the *Dionaea muscipula* 'Shell Tooth', a truly exceptional and highly sought-after cultivar of the celebrated Venus Flytrap. Native to the wetlands of North Carolina, USA, this intriguing variety stands out with its unique toothless traps, which resemble tiny clam shells, giving it an utterly distinctive appearance. Prepare to be fascinated by its unusual morphology and witness the wonders of nature's creativity.

Distinctive Features

• Toothless Traps: The 'Shell Tooth' cultivar is instantly recognizable by its toothless traps, which lack the sharp, teeth-like cilia that typically adorn the edges of Venus Flytrap traps. Instead, the edges of the traps are smooth and rounded, resembling miniature clam shells.
• All-Green Appearance: This cultivar typically exhibits an all-green appearance, with both the leaves and traps displaying a vibrant green colouration. This adds to its unique and somewhat understated charm.
• Rare and Sought-After: The 'Shell Tooth' cultivar is considered one of the rarest and most sought-after Venus Flytrap varieties, making it a prized addition to any carnivorous plant collection.

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 green colouration of the foliage. While this cultivar can tolerate slightly lower light conditions, 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 'Shell 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 'Shell 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, although this cultivar lacks teeth on its traps, it is still a carnivorous plant and capable of capturing and digesting insects. Avoid placing fingers or other objects inside the traps, as this can damage them.
• Although non-toxic to pets and humans, it's always best to keep curious hands and paws away from this captivating carnivore.