Venus Flytrap , Dionaea Muscipula

This Venus Flytrap, Dionaea Muscipula, is a unique variety of carnivorous plant native to subtropical wetlands on the East Coast of the United States. The plant’s distinct trapping mechanism, triggered by insects, is highly adapted for nutrient-poor environments. Dionaea Muscipula is easy to care for and is ideal for novice gardeners.

The Venus Flytrap (Dionea Miscupula) catches small insects such as mosquitoes and flies by closing its leaves on them. As soon as they feel the insect land on their leaves, they will close them up.

This is a fascinating plant, which will eat flies! Its leaves are modified, so grow to develop spiny traps at their tips. These are red-flushed or green in colour, and are designed to snap shut when an insect (attracted by the plant’s nectar) sits inside. Tempting as it may be, you should avoid setting off the traps by touching them yourself, as each trap will only activate two to three times before it dies back. These will get replaced, but if the plant does not get the chance to absorb the nutrients from the insect, it may become weakened over time.