Linear-leaved sundew  (Drosera linearis)

The linear-leaved sundew has not yet been classified by the IUCN. 

The linear-leaved sundew (Drosera linearis) is a small insectivorous plant. It is distinguished from other sundews by its long, narrow leaves which have nearly parallel margins, hence this species’ common name (3). The dark green leaves are covered in miniscule bumps and tiny, reddish, tentacle-like hairs, and are around two to five centimetres long (2). Older leaves sometimes develop a reddish colour (4). 

The small, white flowers of the linear-leaved sundew are borne in a clusters, known as a raceme, at the end of an erect stem (5). Each flower has four to eight equal-sized, roughly egg-shaped petals (2). The fruit capsules have a bumpy outer surface and contain many long, black, oblong to egg-shaped seeds (2).

The linear-laved sundew is one of only two Drosera species endemic to North America (6). Its range is centred around the Great Lakes region, with scattered populations in western Canada and the Maritime Provinces (3) (5).

Growing only in alkaline conditions (2), the linear-leaved sundew is restricted to lime-rich fens, where it is usually found in a centimetre or so of water (7).

A perennial species, the linear-leaved sundew dies back in late autumn, with the plant surviving as underground buds. Re-growth occurs in May, with the production of the leaves followed by flowering in mid- to late June. The flowers only open fully in bright sunlight, and may remain open for about five hours (4) (7). 

The linear-laved sundew is most likely pollinated by bees, but if not pollinated during the day, its flowers will self-pollinate at night when they are closed. The seeds mature by late August to early September and are dispersed on the feet of birds or by water (4) (7).

The most significant threat to the linear-leaved sundew is the development of peatlands. This species is extremely sensitive to changes in its habitat and will not persist if water levels are altered. Consequently, artificially enhanced drainage of peatlands associated with the commercial extraction of peat and mining has led to the loss of some populations (3).

The liner-leaved sundew has not been the target of any known conservation measures.

Find out more about carnivorous plants:

• Slack, A. (2000) Carnivorous Plants. MIT Press, Cambridge, Massachusetts.