Range: SW Australia, from Albany to the Cape

 

An unusual misfit sundew from southwestern Australia, this sole member of subgenus Stelogyne inhabits often very peat-heavy swamp soils in places that remain permanently wet year-round (often in company with Cephalotus). Plants may grow up to nearly half a meter in height on slowly accumulating towers of dead leaves (or remain flat rosettes against the ground), with rosettes up to 6 cm in diameter comprised of flat, roughly oblong or obovate leaves with narrow petioles and a somewhat unique unfurling habit like that of a rolled-out rug. Coloration ranges from olive green to nearly solid deep crimson in strong light. Inflorescences can reach more than 40 cm high, thick and mildly glandular or pubescent, and may bear up to 12 blooms. Each flower can be more than 3 cm across, with broad, roughly triangular to obovate petals colored bright to deep pinkish or lilac. Should the roots become or find exposed locations they will frequently produce plantlets.  Unique in appearance and habits, this species is unlikely to be confused with any other.

 

Cultivation: grow in some form of peat-based soil mix (exact ratios unnecessary, not a picky species), in shallow pots to encourage plantlet production or in deep pots to allow the roots room to stretch down. In winter, keep very cool and moist, around 40-55°F if you wish it to flower. In summer, let the pot dry out to just damp soil, with temps of 70-100°F. Sow seeds on soil surface, and grow in full sun.

 

Lifespan and reproduction: perennial. Reproduces via seeds (requires 2 genetically unique clones crossed), division, and root plantlets, and can be readily grown via root and potentially leaf cuttings.

 

Sources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drosera_hamiltonii

http://ngcarnivorousplants.blogspot.com/2014/02/drosera-hamiltonii-growing-guide.html

https://florabase.dpaw.wa.gov.au/browse/profile/3100

​

​

This is a species that I have found to be extremely easy to grow; no amount of repotting, light, or other stresses makes it hesitate for long, and in my conditions it's always dewy, unlike some claims I've seen from a few other growers. To see flowers however, it is a must that this species experiences strong seasonal fluctuations in temperature, daylength, and/or moisture levels that mimic the natural seasons it expects.