Venus fly trap (Dionaea muscipula 'Akai Ryu') plant — close-up photo
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Venus fly trap

Dionaea muscipula 'Akai Ryu'

Overview

The Venus fly trap (Dionaea muscipula 'Akai Ryu') is a truly amazing plant species. Its carnivorous nature allows it to capture its prey in its unique traps, making it a fascinating species to observe. Its red and green mottled foliage make it a show-stopper in any garden. The translucent red traps act as magnifying glasses and reflex the light, intensifying its colors. The white flowering structure is also a captivating sight as it announces the plant's readiness for seed production. With its amazing foliage, striking colors, and carnivorous capabilities, the Venus fly trap is an incredible plant species.

Care Guide

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Watering

The Venus fly trap (Dionaea muscipula 'Akai Ryu') requires watering quite often, usually once every 7 days or so. The soil should be kept slightly damp but not over-saturated with water, which can harm the plant's roots. You should water the Venus flytrap until the soil is just damp enough, but not soaked. You can also mist the Venus flytrap in order to provide it with some extra moisture. Just make sure that the soil is never completely dry, as this will cause the plant to start dying off.

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Light

The Venus flytrap (Dionaea muscipula 'Akai Ryu') should receive 12 - 14 hours of full, unobstructed sunlight each day. In areas with high levels of ultraviolet radiation, the amount of sunlight should be reduced to 8 - 10 hours per day to avoid sunburn. When the sun is very strong, such as on hot summer days, the Venus flytrap should be kept in partial shade, such as beneath a tree or covered walkway.

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Temperature

Hardiness zone 5–8.

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Pruning

Pruning Venus fly trap (Dionaea muscipula 'Akai Ryu') should be done every 6-8 weeks to keep it healthy and help promote growth. Pruning should consist of removing any dead leaves, spent flower heads, or areas of rotted tissue. This will help encourage the plant to produce more active, healthy looking foliage and attract more insects.

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Propagation

Seed Propagation, Leaf Cutting, Division, Root Cutting

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