cactus succulentN. America Native

King Henry Venus Flytrap

Dionaea muscipula 'King Henry'

The Story

Plant Bio

A carnivorous plant that captures prey using specialized leaves modified into traps.

This cultivar is known for its larger traps and vigorous growth compared to standard Venus flytrap varieties.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesA captivating and unusual addition to carnivorous plant collections, showcasing unique trap structures.
Practical UsesNatural insect control by trapping pests in the garden.
Ecological BenefitsSupports native insect populations and promotes biodiversity.
SpeciesDionaea muscipulaVenus Flytrap

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Cactus Succulent

Height

6 inches

Width

8 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

8, 9, 10

Water

Distilled or rainwater

Humidity

High

Lifespan

20+ years

Native To

North Carolina and South Carolina, USA

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans, but traps contain digestive enzymes

Bloom period

Early summer – Late summer

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In flower about 3 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds on moist, acidic sphagnum moss in early spring.
  2. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity for 2–3 weeks.
  3. Use distilled or rainwater; avoid tap water with chemicals.
  4. Place in full sun with at least 4 hours of direct sunlight daily.
  5. Keep soil moist but not waterlogged, using pitcher water.
  6. Transplant when roots are established, typically after 6–8 weeks.

Pro Tip

Use pure distilled water or rainwater to prevent mineral buildup and ensure healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Use distilled or rainwater for watering 🌱
  • Provide at least 4 hours of direct sunlight daily
  • Keep soil consistently moist
  • Use nutrient-poor, acidic soil mix
  • Monitor for pests regularly

Don't

  • Avoid tap water with chemicals ❌
  • Do not overfeed insects, as it can harm the plant
  • Never expose to freezing temperatures
  • Avoid using fertilizers—it's a carnivorous plant
  • Do not let the soil dry out completely

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Prune
Spring Cleanup
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Miniature carnivorous plant in rock gardensUnique focal point in exotic plant collectionsVanilla-scented border for botanical displays

Companion Plants

Sphagnum moss Orchids Ferns Pitcher plants Dwarf conifers

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

King Henry Venus Flytrap questions

What zones can King Henry Venus Flytrap grow in?

King Henry Venus Flytrap is hardy in USDA Zones 8–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is King Henry Venus Flytrap deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse King Henry Venus Flytrap, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does King Henry Venus Flytrap bloom?

King Henry Venus Flytrap typically blooms in early summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does King Henry Venus Flytrap need full sun?

King Henry Venus Flytrap does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Keep exploring

Grow King Henry Venus Flytrap with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.