Drosera aliciae 'Silvermine' is a carnivorous sundew plant native to South Africa. It is characterized by its slender, dew-covered leaves that attract, trap, and digest insects to supplement its nutrient requirements. This particular variety, 'Silvermine,' is known for its distinctive silver-colored leaves, adding a unique aesthetic to your terrarium.
Light: Place Drosera aliciae 'Silvermine' in a terrarium with bright, indirect light. These plants thrive in high light conditions, but be cautious of direct sunlight, which can scorch the delicate leaves. LED grow lights or fluorescent lights can also be used to provide adequate illumination.
Temperature: Maintain a temperature range of 60-80°F (15-27°C) during the day and avoid drastic temperature fluctuations. Drosera aliciae 'Silvermine' appreciates warmth but can tolerate cooler temperatures if necessary.
Humidity: Keep the terrarium humidity high, around 50-70% or more. Sundews are adapted to humid environments, and higher humidity levels help in maintaining the dew on their leaves, which is essential for capturing and digesting insects.
Substrate: Use a well-draining substrate for your Drosera aliciae 'Silvermine.' A mix of sphagnum moss and perlite or a specialized carnivorous plant mix works well. Make sure the substrate remains consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Water: Water the plant with purified water, such as distilled or rainwater. Keep the substrate consistently moist but not waterlogged. Maintain a shallow tray of water below the pot to enhance humidity levels.
Feeding: Drosera aliciae 'Silvermine' is a carnivorous plant that captures insects for nutrients. While it can thrive on its own by catching prey, you may supplement its diet with occasional feeding of small insects like fruit flies or pinhead crickets. Avoid overfeeding, as excessive prey capture can lead to stress.
Maintenance:
Trim any dead or decaying leaves regularly to maintain the plant's overall health.
Monitor for pests, especially fungus gnats, which can be attracted to the moist conditions. Remove any pests manually or use appropriate insecticides if necessary.
Terrarium Placement: Place Drosera aliciae 'Silvermine' in a prominent position within the terrarium where it can receive ample light. Consider its growth habits and allow sufficient space for the plant to spread and capture prey.
By following these care guidelines, you can create an optimal environment for Drosera aliciae 'Silvermine' in your terrarium, enjoying both its captivating appearance and its unique insect-trapping capabilities.