Drosera capensis
Cape sundew
Native to the Cape in South Africa, the Cape sundew is a small rosette-forming carnivorous species of perennial sundew. Very easy to grow, the strap-like leaves are covered in brightly coloured tentacles which secrete a sticky mucilage that attracts and then traps smaller houseflies, midges and mosquitos. When insects are first trapped, the leaves roll lengthwise toward the centre, this aids digestion and can take up to six hours. An ideal starter plant, much easier to grow than the Venus flytrap and perfect for growing with other houseplants to take care of any sciarid flies that may be present.
Please note that the pot in the photograph is not supplied with the plant (which is sent out in a simple nursery alternative), but we have a wide and wonderful range on our website to choose from.
Please note that the pot in the photograph is not supplied with the plant (which is sent out in a simple nursery alternative), but we have a wide and wonderful range on our website to choose from.
How to care for Drosera capensis:
During the growing season, it's best to water your carnivorous plant from below. Simply place the pot in a saucer filled with about 1cm of soft water. For optimal humidity, keep the pot and saucer on a tray of gravel. When the plant enters its dormant phase, water only when the soil feels dry, ensuring excess water can drain freely.
In spring, repot your plant using specialist carnivorous plant compost, as this will provide the best environment for growth. Keep in mind that these plants take a few years to reach maturity and their full size.
If you're concerned it's not catching enough insects, just place it outside for a few days during the summer months, rather than feed manually.
In spring, repot your plant using specialist carnivorous plant compost, as this will provide the best environment for growth. Keep in mind that these plants take a few years to reach maturity and their full size.
If you're concerned it's not catching enough insects, just place it outside for a few days during the summer months, rather than feed manually.
Eventual height:
0.15m
Eventual spread:
0.2m
Position:
Bright light
Rate of growth:
Average
Soil:
Specialist compost
Hardiness:
Frost tender
8.5cm pot | 10cm tall
£12.99
available to order from winter
Unavailable
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