Drosera xerophila Species Profile

Drosera xerophila Species Profile

Drosera xerophila is a rosetted sundew endemic to the Western Cape, South Africa. It is named for its preference for drier, well-drained habitats.

Drosera xerophila has small rosettes that grow up to 5cm in diameter. The leaves are flat lying and spatulate, with a short gland-less petiole and expanded lamina. The plants are bright, matte green with contrasting red tentacles.

The plants grow in drier, well-drained habitats in mountainous fynbos. It is endemic to the coastal ranges of the Overberg District where it is usually found in the upper slopes. The plants are winter growing, flowering in early summer before entering summer dormancy.

Drosera xerophila is very similar to several rosetted species across its range. It is very similar to D. esterhuyseniae, which shares its habitat and colour scheme but differs by its flat-lying leaves (D. esterhuyseniae has raised leaves). It can also be very similar to D. aliciae var. curviscapa but is generally a brighter matte green, grows in drier habitats and has a more apparent petiole (D. aliciae var. curviscapa ranges from olive green to red, grows in moist habitats and lacks an obvious petiole).

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