Round-leaf Sundew
Drosera rotundifolia
Last reviewed: June 2026
Round-leaf Sundew is a carnivorous native plant found in wetlands across much of North America, blooming white flowers from June through August and attracting bees and flies.
Light
full sun
Water
high
Size
2"–8" H × 2"–6" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, CA, CO, CT and 30 more states
Pollinators
bees, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Round-leaf sundew is a tiny carnivorous plant that forms small rosettes of sticky, reddish leaves that trap insects. This specialized bog plant requires consistently wet conditions and produces delicate white flowers on thin stalks during summer months.
Growing Round-leaf Sundew
Grow Round-leaf Sundew in full sun and high water. Mature plants reach 2 to 8 inches tall and spread 2 to 6 inches wide. Expect high maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Round-leaf Sundew takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Extremely unusual appearance may concern neighbors
- Requires bog-like conditions difficult to maintain
- Very small size makes it appear weedy or struggling
Wildlife value
The small flowers attract bees and flies during summer blooming. As a carnivorous plant, it helps control small flying insects naturally.
Common questions
- Where does Round-leaf Sundew naturally grow?
- Drosera rotundifolia is native to 34 states across North America, from Maine to California, typically growing in bogs, fens, and other acidic wetlands.
- When does Round-leaf Sundew bloom?
- Round-leaf Sundew produces small white flowers on tall stalks during summer months, typically blooming from June through August.
- What pollinators visit Round-leaf Sundew?
- The small white flowers of Drosera rotundifolia are primarily pollinated by bees and flies, which are attracted to the nectar despite the plant's carnivorous nature.
- What growing conditions does Round-leaf Sundew need?
- This carnivorous plant requires consistently wet, acidic soil and full sun to partial sun conditions, making it well-suited for bog gardens and wetland plantings.
- Is Round-leaf Sundew HOA-friendly?
- Round-leaf Sundew takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Round-leaf Sundew? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz