Best Tropical Sundews for Orlando, Florida Gardens

Growing Tropical Sundews Outdoors in Central Florida

Gardeners near Orlando (USDA Zone 9b) can successfully grow several tropical sundew species outdoors year-round. The key is selecting heat-tolerant varieties and providing ample sunlight.

Recommended Species for Zone 9

The following sundews handle Florida's summer heat and humidity well:

• Drosera binata subsp. dichotoma (Giant Staghorn Sundew)
• Drosera binata subsp. multifida (Multifork Leaf Sundew)
• Drosera spatulata (Spoon-leaved Sundew)
• Pygmy sundews (various Drosera species)

Growing Requirements

• Light: At least 4 hours of direct sun daily; more is better.
• Water: Tray method with pure water (RO, distilled, rain).
• Soil: 1:1 peat moss and perlite or silica sand.
• Dormancy: Most tropical sundews do not require winter dormancy in Zone 9.

Why These Work

These species originate from warm climates (Australia, South Africa, South America) and tolerate high temperatures. D. binata varieties are particularly robust, forming large clumps with forked leaves. Pygmy sundews are tiny but prolific, often forming dense carpets.

Pro Tip: Avoid Drosera capensis in full Florida summer sun—it prefers cooler nights. The listed species are better adapted to sustained heat.