Drosera auriculata is one of New Zealand's two species of cormous sundew. It usually begins growth in late autumn to early winter. Initially a rosette is formed about 2-3cm across forming numerous leaves over the course of a month or two. After this a climbing stem emerges from the centre of the rosette and rapidly grows upwards bearing shield-shaped cauline leaves every 1-2 cm to a height of about 15-30cm. Plants in shady areas may reach up to 80cm tall! Sometimes a plant may miss the rosette stage altogether and just produce a climbing stem. Last to be produced in spring are the up to 10 light pink delicately scented flowers 10-15mm across, which are terminal on the stem. Within a month or so of flowering the plant withers and turns black. The plant is now resting several centimetres below the surface as a dormant corm. The corm can withstand the dry soil through the summer until autumn rains bring it back to life again. Drosera auriculata is readily distinguished from Drosera peltata by its smooth sepals.
Habitat -
Peatlands and poor sandy or clay soils that are wet in winter but dry out in summer.
Distribution -
Throughout the North Island and northern tip of the South Island, below 700m. Also found throughout Southeastern Australia and Tasmania.
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