Dionaea
( die - on - AY - uh )
At-A-Glance InformationThis monotypic genus is commonly called Venus Fly Trap, and is native to the East Coast of the United States. These plants produce terminal leaves with a jaw-like 'clamping' structure to them, lined with sensitive hairs that when activated trigger a closing response, trapping prey inside the 'mouth'. These plants are considered somewhat endangered due to poaching in their native range. Venus Fly traps have a life span of between 20 and 30 years.
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Dionaea Species and Varietals
The genus Dionaea is a member of the plant family Droseraceae. Dionaea muscipula, the only species, has the specific epithet 'muscipula', which means flytrap in Latin. The Venus Flytrap, or Dionaea muscipula is closely related to Aldrovanda vesiculosa (Waterwheel Plant) and Drosera (Sundews). To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.
Dionaea muscipula
These plants were first encountered by European explorers in 1759, and forms a basal rosette of between 4 and 7 green leaves that sprout from a bulb-like organ under the soil. The true leaves are the 'traps' of these plants; petioles are capable of photosynthesis. Flowers are white, and borne on long stems. There are four major forms of this species, including 'typica' (most common, with broad decumbent petioles), 'erecta' (with leaves at a 45 degree angle), 'linearis' (with narrow petioles), and 'filiformis' (with extremely narrow to linear petioles). Varieties are listed below.
These plants were first encountered by European explorers in 1759, and forms a basal rosette of between 4 and 7 green leaves that sprout from a bulb-like organ under the soil. The true leaves are the 'traps' of these plants; petioles are capable of photosynthesis. Flowers are white, and borne on long stems. There are four major forms of this species, including 'typica' (most common, with broad decumbent petioles), 'erecta' (with leaves at a 45 degree angle), 'linearis' (with narrow petioles), and 'filiformis' (with extremely narrow to linear petioles). Varieties are listed below.
Caring for Microsorum
Propagation
Problems and Pests
Colocasia plants are susceptible to the following issues and pests:
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Gallery
Videos
Learn about these interesting houseplants.
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An educational video about Cast-Iron Plant.
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Resources
The New Sunset Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide (2012) - Page
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