Venus flytrap

Venus flytrap Overview

Dioneaa is a monotypic genus containing just 1 species of carnivorous, evergreen, perennial that forms rosettes. Known commonly as the Venus flytrap, this species is native to East Coast subtropical wetlands in the USA, growing in nutrient poor habitats and gleaning nutrition from capturing live, insect prey through a specialised trapping mechanism involving hair triggers and modified leaves. They require high levels of humidity, making it a tricky species to care for well at home. However, it is a popular houseplant and best maintained in terrariums or in bog gardens.

How to propagate Venus flytrap

Seed

Sow seed at 10–13ºC in spring. Germination is very slow.

Division

Divide in spring.

Cuttings

In late spring or early winter, take leaf cuttings.

Special features of Venus flytrap

Attractive leaves

Wet sites

Other uses of Venus flytrap

Insectivorous