Drosophyllum lusitanicum (Dewy Pine) Care Instructions
About Drosophyllum (Dewy Pine)
Drosophyllum lusitanicum is a truly unique carnivorous plant and the only species in its genus. Native to parts of Portugal, Spain, and Morocco, it thrives in a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers.
Often mistaken for Drosera, this striking plant produces long, sticky leaves that glisten with dew and emit a subtle honey-like scent to attract prey. When grown outdoors, plants often become covered in trapped insects, adding to their wild, natural appeal. Mature plants also produce beautiful yellow flowers, making them a standout in any collection. đź
đż Dewy Pine (Drosophyllum) Care Guide
Dewy Pines are unique carnivorous plants native to Mediterranean climates, meaning they prefer bright sun, warm temperatures, and slightly drier conditions compared to most carnivorous plants.
âď¸ Sun
-
Adult plants:
- Full sun is best, even in hot and dry conditions
-
Small / young plants:
- Use a 30â40% shade cloth to prevent stress or burning
- Gradually introduce them to stronger light as they mature
đ More sunlight = healthier growth and better dew (sticky trapping fluid)
đ§ Water
-
Young plants (first 6â8 months):
- Use the tray method
- Keep soil consistently damp
-
Mature plants:
- Do not let them sit in water for long periods
- Allow the soil to slightly dry between waterings
- Never let the plant dry to the point of wilting (this can damage roots)
-
Spring & Summer:
- Let the soil dry a bit more between watering
-
Flowering plants:
- Prefer slightly drier conditions
đ Use only low-mineral water (distilled, rain, or reverse osmosis)
đĄď¸ Temperature
- Prefers warm days and cooler nights
- Can tolerate:
- Light frost
- Brief drops to around 25°F (if it warms up during the day)
â ď¸ Protect from extended freezes below 25°F
- Ideal for outdoor growing in:
- California
- Southwest U.S.
- Mediterranean-like climates
đ Dormancy
- No dormancy required
- Grows year-round under proper conditions
đą Soil
Unlike most carnivorous plants, Dewy Pines prefer a well-draining, slightly drier mix.
Recommended mix:
- Equal parts:
- Perlite
- Pumice
- Peat moss
- Coarse vermiculite
- Sand
𪴠Potting & Transplanting
- Use a large terracota (clay) pot, at least 8-12" in diameter
- Clay pots help keep the soil from staying too wet
When you receive your plant:
- Remove all packing material (including the 2nd biodegradable pot)
- Gently remove the second biodegradable pot
- If stuck, carefully cut the 2nd biodegradable pot away
- Keep the plant in its original biodegradable peat pot
- (Optional) Add small slits to the peat pot to help roots grow out
- Plant directly into the new pot
đ This method avoids disturbing the very sensitive roots
â ď¸ Important Tips
- Dewy Pines do not like root disturbance
- Avoid overwatering adult plantsâthis is the most common issue
- Provide excellent drainage and airflow
- Think of them as a âdry-loving carnivorous plantâ


