Month: January 2024

Drosera auriculata (Tall Sundew)

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One species stands tall in the vast realm of carnivorous plants. Meet Drosera auriculata, commonly known as the Tall Sundew, unlike other drosera species that grow in low-lying rosettes. This captivating carnivorous plant has earned its name for its impressive height.

Tall sundews are recognized for their slender, elongated stems that can reach remarkable heights, often standing above other sundew species. The species can be found in both dry and damp places in Australia. The spot where I observed this species is the driest area I have ever seen a sundew in!

Like many sundew species, the tall sundew relies on both its sticky leaves, and a trigger response that envelopes the prey as it gets digested. A characteristics that is also utilized by its closely related species, the famous Venus-Fly trap! Below we see close-ups of leaves and their prey.

Ewartia meredithae (Rusty Cushion plant)

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Now and then, you meet a plant that genuinely surprises you with its resiliency! Ewartia, or cushion plants, endemic to Tasmania, are compact, low-growing plants that form tightly packed stems. They grow hemispherical, which is characteristic of cushion plant species. It can spread a meter in diameter, creating adventitious roots along its branches! Tasmanian cushion plants evolutionarily converged due to wind activity at high altitudes. High winds blow anything away that grows too tall.

Cushion plants do not form a taxonomic group but describe an excellent example of convergent evolution. Plants growing in harsh environments have evolved similar adaptations of forming compact masses of closely spaced stems. They grow in environments with limited soil formations and low water retention. By developing close to the ground, they minimize wind-based water loss. Because they grow in harsh environments, they have little competition for sunlight and can afford to lose height.