Venus Fly Trap, scientifically known as Dionaea muscipula, is one of the most fascinating carnivorous plants, admired for its unique ability to trap and digest insects. Native to the subtropical wetlands of the United States, this plant’s jaw-like traps and quick movements make it a captivating addition to any plant collection. It thrives in bright light and high humidity, making it ideal for terrariums and indoor growing spaces.
Common Names
- Venus Fly Trap
- Snap Trap
- Flycatcher Plant
Botanical Classification
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Order: Caryophyllales
- Family: Droseraceae
- Genus: Dionaea
- Species: D. muscipula
Native Habitat
Venus Fly Trap originates from the subtropical wetlands of North and South Carolina in the United States. It naturally thrives in nutrient-poor, acidic soils, relying on insects to supplement its nutrition. Its ability to adapt to indoor terrariums has made it a popular houseplant worldwide.
Historical and Cultural Significance
The Venus Fly Trap has fascinated plant enthusiasts and scientists for centuries. Discovered in the 18th century, it has been studied for its rapid leaf movement and digestive process. Its distinct trapping mechanism has earned it a reputation as one of nature’s most intriguing plants, often featured in botanical studies and pop culture.
Uses and Popularity
Venus Fly Traps are commonly grown for their decorative and educational value. They are especially popular in terrariums, greenhouses, and as novelty plants for plant collectors. Their carnivorous nature makes them a fun and interactive choice for children and plant enthusiasts alike.
Conservation Status
Venus Fly Trap is listed as vulnerable in its native habitat due to habitat destruction and illegal poaching. However, it is widely cultivated in nurseries, ensuring its availability for plant lovers without impacting wild populations.
Description
Physical Characteristics
Venus Fly Trap features rosettes of hinged leaves with tooth-like cilia along the edges, forming a trap. The leaves are bright green, and the inner trap area often develops a reddish hue. When prey triggers the sensory hairs, the trap snaps shut, creating a sealed chamber to digest the insect.
Growth Habit
This plant grows low to the ground in compact rosettes. Each trap can catch multiple insects before it dies off, allowing the plant to produce new traps as it grows. Its size typically ranges between 5-8 inches in diameter, making it suitable for terrariums and small pots.
Popular Plant Varieties
Ficus Shivereana Moonshine
- Known for its light green leaves with creamy variegation.
Tillandsia Xerographica
- Air plant with silvery leaves, perfect for terrariums.
Aglaonema Red Army
- Vibrant red and green foliage ideal for indoor decor.
Calathea Freddie
- Known for striped green leaves that thrive in low light.
Hoya Obovata
- A trailing plant with round, waxy leaves, perfect for hanging baskets.
Care Guide
Light Requirements
Venus Fly Trap thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. It can tolerate direct sunlight for a few hours daily but prefers filtered light to avoid leaf burn. Artificial grow lights can also be used for indoor setups. Plant Light Requirements
Watering Needs
Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Use distilled or rainwater, as tap water contains minerals that can harm the plant. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely. Indoor Plant Watering
Soil Preferences
Use a nutrient-poor, well-draining soil mix made of peat moss and perlite. Avoid using standard potting soil, as it retains too many nutrients. Indoor Potting Mix
Humidity
This plant prefers high humidity levels between 50-70%. Place it in a terrarium or use a humidity tray to maintain optimal moisture.
Common Pests
Aphids
Aphids can attack new growth and cause deformities. Wash the plant with water or use insecticidal soap. Learn More
Fungus Gnats
These pests thrive in moist soil. Allow the soil surface to dry slightly between waterings to prevent infestations.
Spider Mites
Spider mites cause yellowing leaves. Increase humidity and wipe the leaves regularly to prevent issues. Learn More
FAQs
How often should I feed my Venus Fly Trap?
Feed it live or freeze-dried insects once every 1-2 weeks. Avoid feeding it human food, which can harm the plant.
Can Venus Fly Traps survive indoors?
Yes, they thrive indoors as long as they receive adequate light and high humidity.
How big does a Venus Fly Trap get?
It typically grows 5-8 inches in diameter, with traps about 1 inch wide.
Does the Venus Fly Trap need soil?
Yes, it requires nutrient-poor soil made of peat moss and perlite for optimal growth.
How do I revive a Venus Fly Trap?
Provide adequate light, distilled water, and a humid environment to help the plant recover.
How to take care of Venus Fly Trap
Sun: Indirect
Sun: Indirect
Venus fly trap plants flourish in bright light but can also withstand medium light conditions. An optimal location with medium light in your home would be positioned midway between a window of average size, ensuring consistent illumination. They can be situated anywhere between the center of the room and the window. Keep in mind that the growth of plants is influenced by the amount of light they receive.
Light: Medium - Bright
Light: Medium - Bright
High light plants have specific care requirements that involve an abundance of sunlight for optimal growth. To ensure their well-being, high light plants necessitate a minimum of 6 hours of direct, bright light daily. It is essential to place these plants in the brightest location in your home to allow them to thrive and reach their full potential.
Water: Keep Mostly Moist
Water: Keep Mostly Moist
High water plants such as the Venus Fly Trap need regular and frequent watering for optimal growth and performance. It is recommended to water these plants 3 to 4 times a week to ensure they receive adequate moisture. This frequent watering schedule is necessary because high water plants like the Venus Fly Trap are generally fast-growing and have shallow roots, requiring more water to thrive.
Humidity: High
Humidity: High
They thrive in environments with high humidity levels, so aim to provide daily misting or as frequently as feasible. Alternatively, positioning them near a humidifier can also enhance their growing conditions. While they can tolerate lower humidity levels, insufficient moisture may result in the development of dry, crispy, or yellow-edged leaves.
Pet Friendly: Yes
Pet Friendly: Yes
While it's reassuring to know that this plant poses minimal risk if your pet happens to nibble on it, we generally advise against allowing pets to consume any houseplants as a precautionary measure.
Pro Tip
Pro Tip
Venus flytraps primarily rely on a diet of live flies or other small insects for sustenance. The crucial aspect of their feeding mechanism lies in capturing prey that is alive; deceased flies are ineffective for Venus flytrap feeding. This is because the insect needs to be active within the trap to trigger its closure and subsequent digestion. Additionally, the prey should be sufficiently small to allow the trap to seal tightly around it, preventing bacterial intrusion.
Similar to numerous other plants, Venus flytraps undergo a period of winter dormancy, during which they may appear seemingly lifeless, with foliage possibly receding. It's essential to maintain them in a warm, well-lit environment during this phase while ensuring that the soil doesn't completely dry out. Opting for rainwater or distilled water for watering purposes is advisable to provide the optimal conditions for their growth and health.
Delivery Policy for Plant Condition
Delivery Policy for Plant Condition
"I have only received part of my order. What to do?
No worries if you've only got part of your order! Our plants come from different nurseries and might arrive in separate shipments, typically 1-2 days apart. It's all part of ensuring your green friends reach you in top-notch condition!
If you do not receive the remaining packages within 48 hours contact support at info@mygreenscape.ca
What is the Life Time Support?
Absolutely! Lifetime support means you can count on us whenever you have questions or uncertainties about your plant. Whether you're puzzled by its behavior or just want to ensure it's thriving, we're here for you. Connect with us on Instagram @mygreenscapeto or shoot us an email at support@mygreenscape.ca.
When it comes to our guarantee for plants shipped with standard or express, rest assured that we offer a 30-day happy healthy plant guarantee on all such shipments. This ensures that your plants are covered for 30 days after delivery, giving you peace of mind regarding their condition. If you have any concerns within this period, feel free to reach out to us for assistance.
For further details, please visit our Local Delivery, Store Pickup, Standard Shipping Guide Page.
What to expect
What to expect
Your plant will arrive in a standard nursery pot, typically 0.5" - 1" smaller than the stated size to seamlessly fit into your chosen decorative pot. Washable Paper Planter Bags are available for separate purchase.
Just like nature intended, each plant is unique, showcasing natural variations in size, shape, and characteristics. Our commitment is to deliver a plant that closely resembles the one featured on our website, matching your chosen size, and with the potential to thrive happily in your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Certainly! If you're pondering about ordering plants online, you're not alone. We've compiled the most frequently asked questions. Check out our FAQ section here for quick answers! Happy planting!
Plant & Pot Size Chart
Plant & Pot Size Chart
Choosing the right pot size for your plants can be a daunting task, especially if you're new to gardening. But fear not! Our pot sizes chart can help you find the perfect match for your plants, ensuring they have enough space to grow and thrive. With our guide, you'll be able to confidently choose the right pot size and plant variety for your gardening needs.
Plant Pot Size Guide.
Extra Small | 7-10 cm | 2.5 - 3 inches |
Small | 11-12 cm | 3.5 - 4 inches |
Medium | 14-17 cm | 5 - 6 inches |
Large | 19-21 cm | 8 - 10 inches |
Extra Large | 24-27 cm | 12 - 14 inches |
All sizes are specified in product details.
Your Complete Guide to Pot Sizes: What Size Should You Choose?
When selecting a pot for your plant, it's important to find the right size. But with all the different options out there, how do you know which one is best? We're here to help!
MyGreenscape's pot sizes chart is a great resource for finding your perfect fit. Our easy-to-read chart takes out all the guesswork and helps you quickly choose the right size for your plant.
Smaller pots are best for seedlings or small plants just starting out. These tend to be shallow but wide, allowing enough room for the roots of the young plant but not too much where they get overcrowded. Medium-sized pots are ideal when your plant has grown from its infancy and is ready for more space. These are deeper and wider than small pots, so that it can accommodate larger root systems - making sure your plant gets enough nourishment while still giving it breathing room. Large pots are top choice if you have an established plant in need of lots of space - think trees and large shrubs! The spacious depth and width allow plenty of room for deep root systems without struggling for air or light.
No matter what size you choose, MyGreenscape has got you covered, with our pot sizes chart guaranteeing you find the perfect fit every time!
Winter Shipping Protection
Winter Shipping Protection
We take extra care with each package during the colder months. For destinations experiencing cold weather, we provide insulated packaging and heat packs as needed to protect your plants from freezing temperatures. With Winter Shipping Protection, your plants are equipped to arrive safe and sound, even in winter’s chill.
Care Guide
Care Guide
Explore essential care tips. check out our Comprehensive Resource for Indoor Plant Care.
WATERING MADE EASY
Check soil moisture before watering and use a potting mix that drains well. It’s the secret to healthy, happy plants!