Table of Contents
Fundamental Venus Fly Trap Facts
| Scientific Name | Dionaea muscipula |
| Common Aliases | Venus Fly Trap (or Venus Flytrap), Tippitiwitchet, and Meadow Clam |
| Pet Safe? | Yes |
| Toxicity | Non-toxic to humans and pets |
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 5 - 8 |
| Beneficial Species Pairings | None specifically, but they can be grown with other carnivorous plants |
| Growth Rate | Slow |
| Mature Size | 6-12 inches tall, 6-9 inches wide |
Venus Fly Trap Care Requirements
| Light Requirements | Full to partial sunlight; at least 4 hours of direct sunlight daily |
| Temperature Range | 70-95°F (21-35°C) during growing season; can tolerate down to 40°F (4°C) during dormancy |
| Repotting Frequency | Every 1 or 2 years |
| Soil Type | Will do well in a mix of peat moss and perlite/sand; pumice is also a great option for carnivorous plants. Growing in sphagnum moss is best for beginners. |
| Soil pH | Acidic |
| Preferred Humidity Level | Average humidity. Venus Fly Trap needs moist roots, but what's above ground does not need much humidity. |
| Watering Frequency | Keep soil consistently moist; water when the top layer begins to dry |
| Preferred Watering Methods | Use distilled water, rainwater, or reverse osmosis water; avoid tap water |
| Air Circulation | Good air circulation is beneficial |
| Fertilizer Types | Do not fertilize; they get nutrients from insects |
| Fertilizing Frequency | Not applicable |
| Terrarium Plant? | Yes |
| Terrarium Care | Ensure proper ventilation. Open terrariums are best since Venus Fly Trap doesn't need high humidity levels & will likely rot in closed systems. |
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Venus Fly Trap Notable Needs
| Signs of Dormancy |
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| Seasonal Care Adjustments | Reduce water, temperature, and light from November to February for dormancy |
| Support Requirements | None; stakes, trellises, or moss poles are not needed for support |
| Pruning Requirements | Remove dead leaves and traps to prevent mold |
| Cleaning Requirements | Clean traps if they become clogged with debris |
| Pests to Watch For | Aphids and Spider Mites |
| Potential Diseases | Fungal infections |
Venus Fly Trap Propagation
| Propagation by Division | Yes |
| Division Timing | Best done in early spring before the growing season starts. |
| Division Steps |
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| Propagation by Leaf Cuttings | Yes |
| Leaf Cuttings Timing | Can be done during the growing season (spring to early summer). |
| Leaf Cuttings Steps |
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| Propagation Notes | Propagation can be a bit tricky, so patience and careful handling are key. Do not allow your Venus Fly Trap to dry out. |
Where to Buy Venus Fly Trap Plants
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Bestseller No. 2
Recommended Soil Mix
Better-Gro 50430 Sphagnum Moss
- 100% NATURAL AND CHEMICAL-FREE: Harvested from live plants in rich marshlands, this sphagnum moss is not treated with any chemicals or additives, making it safe for all your gardening or pet needs
- VERSATILE USES IN GARDENING: Ideal moss for orchids, ferns, and hostas; excellent for lining hanging baskets, growing seedlings, and as a decorative soil covering; also makes a great reptile substrate…
- WATER RETENTION: Long-fibered and highly absorbent, this moss retains moisture and any added plant food, providing an excellent growing medium for various plants; for moss for potted plants and moss…
$10.66
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OR
Hoffman 15503 Canadian Sphagnum Peat Moss, 10 Quarts
- Natural soil conditioner improves moisture retention and aeration in soils and potting mix
- Loosens heavy or clay soils for drainage and root development
- Made from premium grade sphagnum peat moss from Canadian bogs
$15.99
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MDPQT 5 Qt Professional Grade Perlite (5 Qt, Perlite)
- Professional grade horticultural perlite
- Excellent for many uses around the home and garden
- Porosity of perlite prevents soil from compacting
$13.99
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